Services
For children 18 months to 5 years. Early identification opens doors to early support — the most impactful intervention window in development.
The average age of autism diagnosis in the United States is still around 4 to 5 years old — even though reliable signs of autism can appear by 12 to 18 months. That gap represents years of missed opportunities for support during the most critical developmental window of a child's life.
Parents are often told to "wait and see." Sometimes that advice is appropriate. But earlier identification consistently leads to better outcomes — because the supports that help young children develop most effectively have the greatest impact when they begin early, during the period of highest brain plasticity.
Your child is between 18 months and 5 years and you have concerns about language, social development, sensory responses, or other developmental markers. You don't need to be certain something is wrong. You just need a concern.
Common reasons families seek early childhood evaluations in Guilford and across the CT Shoreline include:
Every evaluation is tailored to your child's age and presentation. Testing with young children is play-based, observational, and parent-informed — your knowledge of your child's history and daily behavior is essential clinical information no test can replace. When autism is a concern, assessment includes age-appropriate autism-specific tools alongside developmental and language measures. You'll receive a comprehensive written report with findings and specific recommendations, including guidance on next steps for services and support. For school-age children with autism concerns, see autism evaluations for school-age children.
For children under age 3, Connecticut's Birth to Three program provides free early intervention services — speech therapy, occupational therapy, and developmental support. Access begins with identification. An evaluation opens that door. For children aged 3 to 5, early identification means earlier access to preschool special education services through your local school district.
Have more questions? Visit our FAQ page for answers to the most common questions families ask before getting started.
Early childhood evaluations are available for families in Guilford, Madison, Branford, Clinton, and across the Connecticut Shoreline.
Shapiro Psychology is located in Guilford, CT and serves families across Madison, Branford, Clinton, Old Saybrook, East Haven, North Haven, New Haven, and the Connecticut Shoreline.