Clear insights into literacy, numeracy, and learning—so your child can succeed with confidence.
A Specific Learning Disorder Assessment helps families understand why a child may be struggling with reading, writing, spelling, or mathematics, and what supports will best help them thrive. Our assessments identify strengths, pinpoint learning barriers, and provide a practical, evidence‑based plan for home and school. Assessments are offered in‑clinic (Derrimut), at home or school across Melbourne’s west and north, and via telehealth when appropriate.
Who this is for
An SLD assessment is recommended when a child:
- Struggles with reading accuracy, fluency, or comprehension, raising concerns about dyslexia.
- Has difficulty with written expression, spelling, or organising ideas on the page.
- Shows persistent challenges with mathematical reasoning, number sense, or calculation, suggestive of dyscalculia.
- Works hard but continues to fall behind academically, despite quality teaching and support.
- Demonstrates attention, memory, or processing challenges that impact learning outcomes.
Families, teachers, or health professionals often seek this assessment when learning concerns persist and a deeper understanding is needed to guide intervention.
What the assessment involves
Our SLD Assessment blends standardised testing, functional observation, and SLCN’s whole‑child developmental framework to ensure recommendations are clear, practical, and tailored.
1) Intake & developmental history
We begin by gathering information about your child’s developmental, academic, and learning history, as well as your goals. This aligns with SLCN’s collaborative, family‑centred approach to understanding the whole child.
2) Standardised academic and cognitive assessment
Depending on your child’s needs, the assessment may include measures of:
- Reading (phonological awareness, decoding, fluency, comprehension)
- Writing (spelling, written expression, handwriting considerations)
- Mathematics (number skills, reasoning, problem‑solving)
- Cognitive processing (working memory, processing speed, executive functioning)
SLDs commonly co‑occur with ADHD, language difficulties, or executive functioning challenges, so our assessment screens these areas when relevant to ensure an accurate and comprehensive profile.
3) Functional learning profile across SLCN’s eight developmental areas
We examine how academic challenges connect with communication, play, daily living skills, motor development, executive functioning, social‑emotional skills, and classroom participation—helping you understand the “why” behind the learning challenges.
4) School input and real‑world context
Teacher questionnaires and work samples may be included to understand learning across settings. This ensures recommendations translate smoothly into classroom supports and individual learning plans.
5) Feedback & written report
You will receive a clear, easy‑to‑understand explanation of:
- Whether criteria for a Specific Learning Disorder are met
- Your child’s strengths and challenges
- Practical, individualised recommendations for home and school
- Strategies to support learning, confidence, and independence
What you’ll walk away with
- A clear understanding of your child’s learning profile and why certain tasks feel difficult.
- Strategy‑rich recommendations for literacy, numeracy, study skills, and executive functioning.
- A comprehensive report suitable for teachers, allied health professionals, and educational planning.
- Guidance on therapy, tutoring, or intervention pathways aligned with your child’s strengths and needs.
Our approach
- Holistic & strengths‑based: We look beyond challenges to identify the skills your child already has—and how to build on them.
- Collaborative: We work closely with families, teachers, and other professionals to create consistent support across home and school.
- Flexible delivery: In‑clinic, school/home visits, or telehealth options available across Melbourne and Australia.
After the assessment: next steps
We can support your child’s learning journey through:
- Targeted therapy (e.g., literacy, language, executive functioning, emotional regulation) delivered by our multidisciplinary team.
- Parent Coaching, helping you build everyday routines that strengthen learning and confidence.
- School collaboration to help implement classroom adjustments and Individual Education Plans (IEPs).
- Social groups or skill‑building programs, when appropriate, to support peer interaction and confidence.
Availability & bookings
Appointments are available now.
Book online or contact our team on 03 80 880 527 to discuss whether an SLD Assessment is the right next step for your child.
