ADOS-2 Assessment
Precise Evaluation. Personalized Support.
At Smart Start Academe, we use the ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule – Second Edition) to assess and better understand children who may be showing signs of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This gold-standard, play-based assessment helps us provide the right support by uncovering strengths, needs, and developmental patterns.
Why the ADOS-2 Assessment Matters
- Structured observation of social and communication behaviors
- Age-appropriate, play-based interaction modules
- Support in confirming or ruling out an ASD diagnosis
- A foundation for building targeted therapy and educational plans
Meet Your Assessor – Saadia Shoukat
- Director, Smart Start Academe (A Project of IMR)
- Consultant Speech and Language Pathologist | Special Educator
- Registered Behavior Technician (RBT – UAE)
- Certified ADOS-2 Assessor (UK)
With a career dedicated to early intervention and neurodevelopmental care, Saadia Shoukat brings a rare combination of clinical precision and compassionate insight to every child she works with. With over 25 years of experience, she is a certified ADOS-2 assessor and an experienced speech-language pathologist, specializing in identifying developmental differences with clarity—ensuring that each child receives the support they need at the right time.
Her expertise spans across:
- Autism spectrum evaluation and diagnostics
- Communication and language development
- Behavioral therapy using Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) principles
- Inclusive education and early childhood support
At Smart Start Academe, Saadia leads a multidisciplinary team committed to empowering children through evidence-based therapies, customized learning plans, and family-focused guidance. Her approach is rooted in empathy, driven by data, and shaped by over a quarter-century of hands-on experience across clinical and educational settings.
Our ADOS-2 Assessment Process
1. Pre-Assessment Consultation
We begin with a discussion with parents and caregivers to understand concerns, gather developmental history, and determine suitability for ADOS-2. ✔ Guided questionnaires and behavior checklists
✔ Discussion of observed behaviors and milestones
2. ADOS-2 Sessions
A certified evaluator conducts a semi-structured session with patients of all ages to observe communication, play, social skills, and imaginative use of materials.
✔ Conducted in a friendly, non-clinical environment
✔ Age-specific modules for accurate observation
✔ No pressure—just guided interaction and observation
2. ADOS-2 Sessions
A certified evaluator conducts a semi-structured session with patients of all ages to observe communication, play, social skills, and imaginative use of materials.
✔ Conducted in a friendly, non-clinical environment
✔ Age-specific modules for accurate observation
✔ No pressure—just guided interaction and observation
3. Post-Assessment Reporting & Recommendations
Our team compiles the results, provides a detailed report, and offers recommendations for next steps.
✔ Diagnostic insights explained clearly and sensitively
✔ Guidance for therapy, school support, or further evaluations
✔ Time for parents to ask questions and discuss the findings
Who Should Consider ADOS-2 Assessment?
The ADOS-2 assessment is available for individuals of all ages, including:
- Those showing signs of delayed social or language development
- Individuals exhibiting restricted or repetitive behaviors
- People with difficulty in imaginative play or peer interactions
- Those who’ve received inconclusive developmental screenings
It is a comprehensive tool suitable for assessing developmental concerns at any stage of life.
FAQs – Understanding ADOS-2
ADOS-2 is a standardized tool used to assess and diagnose Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) based on observation of social and communication behaviors.
The assessment can be used for children as young as 3 years old and up through adulthood, with different modules based on age and language skills.
The ADOS-2 session usually lasts 45 to 60 minutes, followed by time for scoring and feedback.
ADOS-2 is often used as part of a full diagnostic process. While it informs a diagnosis, additional clinical input may be needed.
Only certified, trained professionals with pediatric experience conduct the assessment.
We provide a full report and review the results with parents, including recommendations for next steps like therapy or school accommodations.
Not directly—ADOS-2 is designed to feel like natural play, minimizing stress or pressure for the child.
Not always. You can book directly with us, though we welcome collaboration with pediatricians or psychologists.
Yes, there are modules specifically for adolescents and verbal individuals, ensuring accurate assessment across age groups.
ADOS-2 can still be helpful for validating previous diagnoses, tracking progress, or updating therapy strategies.
Gain Clarity. Take the First Step With Confidence.
If you’re unsure or concerned about your child’s development, a proper evaluation can make all the difference. Let’s find answers—together.