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Academic Assessments
Academic Literacy Assessments for Children
Not every child needs a formal diagnosis.
Sometimes, parents simply want a clear understanding of how their child is going with reading, spelling and writing, and practical advice on how to best support them at home and at school.
If you have concerns about your child’s progress in literacy, I offer cost-effective academic assessments that focus on identifying strengths, difficulties, and next steps — without the need for a full diagnostic assessment.
About the Assessment
Karen Starkiss – Dyslexia Assessment and Support Services
I am passionate about helping children feel confident in their learning and reach their personal potential. With over 30 years’ experience supporting children with literacy difficulties, I bring both professional expertise and a deep understanding of the emotional impact learning challenges can have.
I am a qualified teacher and former school principal, which means my assessments are grounded in real classroom experience. I understand what schools can realistically implement and what parents can support at home, and my recommendations reflect this.
Why Parents Choose an Academic Assessment
Many children who struggle with literacy begin to lose confidence. Some start to believe they are “not smart” or feel embarrassed in front of their peers.
I once asked Alex, aged 13, what she hoped to gain from her assessment thinking it would be to be able to improve her spelling or reading. Her response was:“I just don’t want my friends to think I’m stupid.”
An academic assessment can help children like Alex — by explaining why learning feels hard,
identifying what will help, and restoring confidence and self-belief.
What Is Assessed
Depending on your child’s age and needs, the assessment may include:
• Phonological awareness (how sounds are processed in words)
• Phonological memory
• Rapid Automatic Naming (RAN)
• Reading age, accuracy and rate
• Sight word and decoding skills.
• Word and sentence fluency
• Letter–sound knowledge
• Reading and listening comprehension.
• Spelling
• Alphabet knowledge (saying, writing, and sequencing)
• Handwriting speed
• Informal assessment of wriMen expression
After the Assessment
You will receive a clear, easy-to-understand written report, including:
• Your child’s strengths and areas of difficulty
• Practical recommendations for support
• Strategies you can use at home
• Guidance you may choose to share with your child’s school
Cost $450