What can I do while waiting for an assessment? 

Parenting Perspective 

Keep a Clear Record 

Waiting for an assessment can feel long and worrying, but there are many gentle things you can do now to help your child feel supported. Start by keeping a clear record of your child’s behaviours. Note what seems to trigger them, what helps and what challenges they face each day. This will be very useful when your appointment comes around. 

Create Calm and Predictable Routines 

In the meantime, focus on creating calm and predictable routines at home. A steady schedule, clear instructions and gentle encouragement can ease your child’s worries and help them feel more secure. Try breaking tasks into small, manageable steps and praise the effort they make, not just the results. 

Try Helpful Strategies and Seek Support 

Remember, you do not need to wait for a formal diagnosis to try helpful strategies. For example, using visual aids, setting up sensory-friendly play areas or planning quiet times can make everyday life feel a little smoother for some children. If you can, reach out to other parents or local support groups. It can be reassuring to know you are not alone in this. 

Be kind to yourself too. The waiting period can be draining for parents, so try to make small moments for rest, even if it is just sitting with a cup of tea. Small steps each day can bring comfort to you and your child and lay a good foundation for the support that may come next. Trust that the care you are giving now really does make a difference. 

Spiritual Insight 

In Islam, patience during uncertainty is a sign of faith and hope. The waiting period before an assessment can test your resolve, but it can also deepen your Tawakkul. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Baqarah (2), Verse 286: 

‘Allah does not burden a soul beyond that it can bear. ‘

This Ayah is a balm for every anxious heart, it reminds you that this waiting is within your capacity, especially when you lean on Allah Almighty through Dua and calm actions. 

It is recorded in Jami Tirmidhi, Hadith 2646, that holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ stated: 

‘Whoever treads a path in search of knowledge, Allah Almighty will make the path to Paradise easy for him. ‘

This Hadith Shareef gives hope that your effort to understand your child is a noble path, each small step counts as worship when done with sincerity. Use this waiting time to strengthen your connection with your child, play together, listen without judgement, and reassure them they are loved exactly as they are. Make Dua daily for wisdom, for Barakah in the upcoming assessment, and for the courage to accept whatever is revealed. Trust that Allah Almighty sees your worry, your exhaustion, and your unwavering love, and He will not let a single moment of your patient effort go unrewarded.