Evaluations
Speech, Language & Feeding Evaluations for Children
An evaluation is the first step toward a clear plan. A Fisher-Jost Therapy speech-language pathologist looks closely at how your child communicates or eats, explains what we found in plain language, and recommends next steps, whether that's therapy, home strategies, or simply checking in again later.
When to request an evaluation
If your child isn't meeting speech or language milestones, is hard to understand, stutters, struggles socially, or eats very few foods, an evaluation will give you answers. Your pediatrician, teacher or Early Intervention coordinator may also suggest one.
Depending on your concerns
What we assess
- Speech sounds: how clearly your child says sounds and words
- Language: understanding, vocabulary, sentences and following directions
- Fluency: stuttering patterns and how speaking feels for your child
- Social communication: play, conversation and reading social cues
- Oral-motor and feeding skills: chewing, drinking, swallowing patterns and the foods your child accepts
What to expect on evaluation day
An evaluation is comprehensive and can last up to one hour. Most children experience it as play. We'll use games, books, conversation and standardized tests where appropriate, and we'll ask you about your child's history and daily routines. For feeding evaluations, we'll ask you to have some of your child's preferred foods and one or two new foods on hand.
What you'll receive afterward
A written report with results, recommendations and suggested goals, usually within one week, and we'll talk it through together. With your permission, we can share it with your pediatrician or school.
Cost and insurance
We're in network with Blue Cross Blue Shield. For private-pay families, call us and we'll explain evaluation costs before you schedule.
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In your home, at our Frankfort or Manteno home therapy space, on-site at Elevated Therapeutics, or sometimes online.
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Just tell them they'll be playing some games with a new friend. Bring any past reports or school documents.
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That's common and okay. Our therapists are experienced at following a child's lead, and we'll get useful information either way.
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We're in network with Blue Cross Blue Shield. Other families pay privately. See insurance and costs.
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No. We grow our team as needed so families can start without waiting.
Evaluation FAQs
Related: Getting started · Late talkers · For pediatricians
Ready to talk about your child?
Book a free screening. We'll listen, answer your questions, and help you decide on next steps.