Did you know that by age 8, children typically spend over 6 hours each day in complex social interactions? Third grade brings a whole new world of friendship groups, tricky schoolwork, and social rules. Like a player learning a new sport, your child faces more challenging “game rules” in both friendships and learning.

Why Third Grade Matters

The third-grade year is like crossing a bridge. Your child moves from learning to read to reading to learn, from simple friendships to complex social groups, and from basic emotions to deeper feelings. Some kids sprint across this bridge, while others take careful steps.

Before Starting the Assessment

Think of this tool as a friendly chat about your child’s daily life at school. Just as a scientist uses different tools to study nature, this assessment helps you observe various aspects of how your child handles learning, friendships, and feelings.

How to Take the Assessment

1. Find a quiet moment when you can reflect clearly
2. Click the “Start Assessment” button
3. Think about your child’s typical behavior over recent months
4. Choose answers that match what you usually see
5. Use “Previous” if you want to review earlier answers
6. Complete all questions without rushing

Understanding Your Results

Your results will show a percentage score. Think of it like reading a weather forecast:

70% or higher: Your child shows several patterns common in children with autism, especially in social situations and learning.

50-69%: Your child shows some patterns that sometimes appear in children with autism.

Below 50%: Your child shows fewer patterns typically connected with autism.

Taking Action

If your child’s score is high or you notice concerning patterns:

• Keep notes about specific situations
• Talk with their teacher about classroom observations
• Schedule a visit with their doctor
• Look into school support options
• Connect with parent support groups

Supporting Your Learning Child

Think of supporting your child like coaching a young athlete. Just as athletes need different types of practice for different skills, your child might need various kinds of support to build their social and learning abilities.

School Resources to Consider

Look into:

1. Reading support services
2. Social skills groups
3. School counseling
4. Learning accommodations
5. Friendship clubs or supervised activities

Medical Disclaimer

This assessment works like a compass, not a map. It cannot tell you if your child has autism but can guide important conversations with professionals. Only qualified healthcare providers can properly evaluate and diagnose autism. This tool helps you notice patterns in your child’s behavior that you might want to discuss with their doctor or school team. Your results are private and meant only to help you understand your observations better. Never delay seeking professional medical advice because of something you learned from this assessment. If you have concerns about your child’s social life, learning, or emotional development, always consult with their healthcare provider and school team. Remember that children develop at different rates, and professional guidance is essential for understanding your child’s unique needs.