Sensory Assessment

Conducting a high-quality assessment of a child’s sensory status is the foundation for determining the devices, accommodations, and services that will help maximize the use of any available hearing and vision, as well as promote the use of other senses, such as touch.

Sensory assessment involves both formal and informal assessments. Formal assessments are tests done by specialists, such as ophthalmologists and audiologists, who measure how well and in what ways a person sees and hears. Informal assessments are typically observations of the child in his or her environment and daily routines by early intervention staff, teachers, and the family.

Together, the information collected by formal and informal assessment helps create a clearer picture of a child’s specific sensory losses, abilities, and needs.