Before Choosing an Evaluation: Clarify Your Goals

Before selecting an evaluation, it is important for families to pause and clarify why they are seeking an evaluation and what they hope to gain from it. Different evaluations serve different purposes, and being clear about your goals helps ensure you choose the right type of assessment for your child.

Consider the questions below:

• Do you want to better understand why your child is struggling with reading, spelling, or writing? Some families are seeking insight and guidance to inform instruction or intervention.

• Are you seeking a formal diagnosis to support accommodations or services? This may be needed for standardized testing, future educational planning, or access to specific supports.

• Are there external requirements or documentation needs influencing your decision? In some cases, testing is pursued to meet requirements for testing accommodations, educational programs, or future transitions.

• What do you hope will happen after the evaluation?  Examples may include:

  - Clear instructional recommendations

  - A formal diagnosis

  - Access to accommodations

  - Documentation for testing or future planning

  - Peace of mind and next steps

There is no single “right” reason to pursue an evaluation. Being clear about your purpose helps ensure the evaluation you choose aligns with your child’s needs, your family’s goals, and how the results will be used.

Optional Family Reflection Questions

• What is our primary reason for seeking an evaluation?

• What do we hope to accomplish after the evaluation?

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