Autism Testing for Children in Arlington Heights, IL: A Complete Guide for Families

Watching your child grow and develop is one of the most rewarding parts of parenting. But when you notice your child’s behavior or development doesn’t quite match that of other kids their age, it’s natural to feel concerned and wonder if something more might be going on.

Maybe your toddler isn’t babbling or making eye contact as much as other children. Or perhaps your school-age child excels academically but struggles with social interactions or sensory sensitivities. If these or other differences catch your attention, you might be wondering: Is my child showing signs of autism? Should I pursue testing?

At the Chicago Autism Testing Institute in Arlington Heights, IL, we understand how overwhelming these questions can be. That’s why we offer compassionate, expert autism testing services designed to bring clarity and confidence to families just like yours.

The Importance of Early Autism Testing and Evaluation

Early diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is crucial because it opens the door to timely interventions that can improve your child’s communication, social skills, and overall development. Pediatricians often include developmental screenings during regular checkups, but a comprehensive evaluation is needed to make an accurate diagnosis.

Children who receive an early diagnosis can begin therapies such as speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, and Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), which research shows are most effective when started as soon as possible.

Our Arlington Heights center frequently conducts evaluations for children as young as 18 months, using gold-standard screening tools to identify early signs of autism. No matter your child’s age, getting answers sooner can help your family feel empowered and prepared to support their unique needs.

Common Signs That Might Lead to Autism Testing

Children with autism can display a wide range of behaviors and symptoms. However, some signs often prompt parents and caregivers to seek an evaluation, including:

In Toddlers:

• Limited or delayed speech development
• Difficulty maintaining eye contact
• Lack of response to their name consistently
• Repetitive behaviors such as hand-flapping or rocking
• Limited interest in social games or interactive play

In Older Children:

• Challenges with back-and-forth conversations despite good vocabulary
• Intense focus on specific topics or routines
• Difficulty interpreting social cues, like facial expressions or gestures
• Sensory sensitivities that affect daily life (e.g., aversion to certain sounds or textures)
• Distress or frustration when routines change unexpectedly

If you notice several of these behaviors or your intuition tells you something feels different, a professional evaluation is a valuable next step.

What Happens During an Autism Evaluation at Our Arlington Heights Location?

Many parents worry about what autism testing involves. At Chicago Autism Testing Institute – Arlington Heights, we design our evaluations to be as supportive and straightforward as possible.

Step 1: Parent Interview and Developmental History

Your first appointment will include an in-depth conversation about your child’s developmental milestones, behavior, and any concerns you have noticed. Your perspective is essential to the evaluation process.

Step 2: Observational and Play-Based Assessments

Using validated tools like the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-2), our clinicians observe your child’s communication, social interaction, and play. These assessments are tailored to your child’s age and developmental level and conducted in a warm, child-friendly environment.

Step 3: Comprehensive Behavioral Observation

Beyond formal testing, clinicians watch how your child interacts naturally, noting strengths and areas where support may be needed.

Step 4: Clinical Scoring and Integration

We combine data from tests, observations, and your input to form a complete picture of your child’s profile.

Step 5: Feedback and Recommendations

Once the evaluation is complete, we’ll meet with you to review the results in clear, accessible language. Whether your child is diagnosed with autism or another developmental difference, you’ll receive detailed recommendations on therapies, educational support, and next steps.

Why Families Choose Chicago Autism Testing Institute in Arlington Heights

Our Arlington Heights location is a trusted resource for families in Arlington Heights, Palatine, Mount Prospect, and surrounding communities because of:

• Convenient Access: Easy to reach for local families needing timely evaluations.
• Experienced Team: Our clinicians are experts in early childhood development and autism assessment.
• Family-Centered Approach: We prioritize compassion, respect, and partnership throughout the process.
• Detailed Reporting: Parents leave with a comprehensive understanding and clear guidance.
• Child-Friendly Atmosphere: Our spaces are designed to reduce stress and engage children meaningfully during assessments.

Moving Forward: Support and Services After Testing

An autism diagnosis is not the end—it’s the beginning of a new chapter of support and growth. North Shore Pediatric Therapy’s Arlington Heights center provides all therapy services, including speech therapy, occupational therapy, ABA, school-based supports, and parent education.

Your child’s medical provider can help coordinate referrals to local specialists, and we’re here to guide you toward trusted partners who can assist with the next steps in your child’s care.

Take the Next Step Today

If you have concerns about your child’s development and are considering autism testing, the Chicago Autism Testing Institute in Arlington Heights is ready to help. Our expert team is committed to providing thorough, compassionate evaluations that empower families with knowledge and hope.

Contact us today to schedule an autism evaluation in Arlington Heights and take the first step toward understanding your child’s unique needs and potential.