Assessment

When children are referred to Handy Kids OT an assessment is conducted to determine the child's current level of function. The assessment provides information regarding skills that may not be developing as expected.

The assessment process begins with a parent questionnaire which is sent to the parent prior to the initial consultation. This provides vital background information for the therapist to gain an understanding of the child and his/her needs.

Handy Kids OT offers two types of assessment to clients. 

Screening Assessment:

This involves the use of non-standardised assessment tools to determine strengths and weaknesses in specific areas of development. A brief summary of results s provided at the completion of the assessment. This assessment is usually completed in approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour.

Comprehensive Assessment:

A full assessment involves the use of standardised assessments tools that determine strengths and weaknesses in the areas of fine and gross motor, handwriting, visual perception, self care skills, sensory processing and attention/organisation. a comprehensive report is provided at the completion of the assessment and is included in the assessment fee. This assessment usually requires 1.5 to 2 hours to complete.

The comprehensive assessment is recommended when commencing therapy as it provides a more thorough evaluation of the child. It also allows the therapist to look at the underlying areas of development which may be resulting in poor performance, such as strength or coordination or sensory processing.

At the completion of either assessment, the therapist will provide you with feedback regarding their observations. Preliminary recommendations will also be provided at this appointment. Recommendations may include a home exercise program, individual therapy, group therapy or sometimes no intervention is required at all. More detailed results are available within 1 week of the assessment, as time is required to score the standardised tests.