Uncovering the Why, Empowering the How

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

Early diagnosis leads to earlier intervention—and better outcomes. ADOS-2 offers:

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.
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.
3. Post-Assessment Reporting & Recommendations

We believe in working hand-in-hand with families.

Who Should Consider ADOS-2 Assessment?

The ADOS-2 assessment is available for individuals of all ages, including:
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.

Yes, all sessions are personalized and conducted one-on-one with certified therapists.

We conduct regular evaluations and share detailed reports and feedback with families.

Absolutely. We encourage parent participation and provide support for at-home reinforcement.

Children may begin using new sounds or words, improve fluency, and gain better interaction skills as therapy progresses.

 

Yes, we primarily offer one-on-one sessions but also provide group therapy when social communication goals align. Group sessions are designed to enhance socializing capabilities, patience, and teamwork. These sessions are regularly held and are tailored to different needs, such as:

  • Academic Group Sessions: Focused on improving communication and learning skills in a group setting.
  • Speech Group Sessions: Aimed at improving speech clarity, articulation, and language development through peer interaction.
  • Behavioral Group Sessions: Focused on developing social skills, emotional regulation, and appropriate behavior in group settings.

These group activities are specifically structured to foster socialization, increase patience, and help individuals work collaboratively, particularly for children in developing their social communication skills.

Yes! Parent involvement is encouraged and welcomed as part of the therapy process. We also offer FREE PARENTAL TRAINING SESSIONS to help you better understand and support your child’s progress. These sessions provide valuable insights into therapy techniques and strategies, ensuring that parents can actively contribute to their child’s development outside of therapy sessions.

We use a mix of speech-focused games, flashcards, apps, and storytelling to make sessions effective and fun.

Definitely! We provide at-home exercises and guidance to reinforce therapy between sessions.

Let’s Give Your Child the Confidence to Speak Freely

Whether your child is struggling to say their first word or needs help with advanced conversation skills, we’re here to support them—every step, every sound, every sentence.