There’s a broad range of behavior that’s typical and healthy as children grow up, and kids develop differently, even from sibling to sibling. But when a child’s thoughts or behaviors interfere with their ability to function and the problem isn’t going away, they may need help.

Many mental health and learning disorders share similar symptoms, so it’s important to pay close attention to what your child is struggling with. It isn’t a replacement for an evaluation from an expert, but the Child Mind Institute’s Symptom Checker can guide you toward possible diagnoses, practical information and next steps. Learn more about when to get help.

Diagnosis depends on getting a detailed picture of your child’s moods and behaviors. A good clinician will ask you, your child, their teacher, and other caretakers questions about your child’s behavior, symptoms, developmental history and more. The clinician should also use tools that present an objective view of those behaviors and symptoms. Learn more about getting a good diagnosis.

It’s important to find a clinician with experience diagnosing and treating children. Look for a professional who has been trained in evidence-based treatments and takes time arriving at a diagnosis. Learn more about what to look for in a clinician.

During an intake call at the Child Mind Institute you will be asked to describe your concerns, your child’s treatment history and current medications they may be taking. Afterward, our intake coordinator will meet with our team to discuss your child’s unique needs and start designing the evaluation and treatment plan. Learn more about the intake process at the Child Mind Institute.

Kids experience less anxiety when parents explain what to expect from their first appointment. Read our guidelines for talking to kids of all ages.

When a child begins treatment, clinicians should discuss with parents the goals of treatment and how they can play a productive role. Parents may be asked to join their child’s therapy sessions, have one-on-one sessions with the therapist, or help kids practice skills between sessions.

Sometimes the first diagnosis isn’t accurate or complete. Other times a particular treatment doesn’t work because it isn’t the right choice or the child isn’t on board. Learn how to troubleshoot problems in treatment.

Learning disorders are legitimate conditions that can be identified using different kinds of standardized tests. These measures show the ways that your child’s learning differs from their classmates and helps determine how to treat any weaknesses. Sometimes an evaluation targets academic tasks, like reading, writing and math. Sometimes other skills, like attention and memory, must be examined. Learn more about evaluations for learning issues.

Educational and neuropsychological testing is often required to access special education services or accommodations in school, and it can help determine appropriate school placement. Kids may be entitled to a wide range of supports through either a Section 504 accommodations plan or an Individualized Education Program (IEP). Early testing and periodic retesting can establish your child’s needs from pre-K through post-graduate education. Learn more about getting services in school.