Get the Answers You Need
When your child’s development seems different than expected, it can leave you with more questions than answers. If you’re feeling uncertain or concerned, know you’re not the only one—and you don’t have to figure it out alone.
Stride Autism Centers supports South Dakota families by providing thorough autism screenings and diagnostic evaluations for young children. Our licensed clinical psychologists specialize in early childhood and are here to guide you through each step with care and professionalism.
An evaluation can help you better understand your child’s strengths and where they may need more support. Whether your child receives a diagnosis or not, we’ll help you take the next step forward with clarity and confidence.
Autism Screening Questions
Please review the below questions. If you answer YES to 2 or more in each section, we recommend you contact us about a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation.
*Stride specializes in work with toddlers and preschoolers. If your child is 5 ½ years or older, we can help find a referral who may better fit your child’s needs.
Social Communication and Interaction:
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Does or did your child have delays in speech or language compared to peers?
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2
Does your child struggle to understand facial expressions, gestures, or body language?
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3
Does your child have difficulty sharing interests or playing with peers?
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4
Does your child have difficulty with eye contact or looking towards others during conversations?
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5
Does or did your child have delays in speech or language compared to peers?
Restricted, Repetitive Behaviors, Interests, or Activities:
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Does your child engage in repetitive movements (hand-flapping, rocking)?
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2
Does your child use repetitive speech (echolalia)?
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3
Does your child insist on following specific routines or become upset by small changes?
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4
Does your child have interests that are unusual in intensity or focus?
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5
Is your child unusually sensitive or interested in certain sensory experiences (sounds, textures, lights)?
Note: A positive result on a screening tool is not a diagnosis. It should be followed by a thorough assessment by a healthcare professional. For more information, Contact Us today!
How ASD Diagnostic Evaluations Work
If a pediatrician or other professional has recommended you pursue an autism evaluation or diagnosis, you are in the right place! At Stride, our goal is to make diagnostic evaluations as easy and stress-free as possible.
If you are unsure about next steps and have developmental questions, please start with our quick screening questions or reach out to our Intake Specialists.
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Caregiver InterviewWe start with an interview about your concerns and your child's developmental history with our psychologist.
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Formal AssessmentUsing a series of assessments, including rating scales, observations, and the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition (ADOS®-2)s we evaluate your child's development.
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Diagnostic Feedback & RecommendationsWithin 2 weeks, you will meet with our team to discuss a summary of findings, recomendations, and answer any questions. You will also receive a detailed report. with specific recommendations to help your family and child.
Autism Diagnostic Services for Families Across South Dakota
If you’ve started to notice signs that your child may experience the world a little differently, taking action can feel overwhelming, but it’s a meaningful step. We’re here to make the process easier.
Stride Autism Centers provides comprehensive diagnostic services for preschool-aged children throughout South Dakota, including families in and around Sioux Falls.
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Expert TeamYour child will be evaluated by a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with advanced training as a Doctoral-level Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA-D). Our team brings both clinical expertise and a warm, understanding approach to every family we work with.
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Tailored AssessmentsWe use reliable, research-backed tools like the ADOS®-2 to observe how your child plays, communicates, and interacts in a way that’s developmentally appropriate and child-centered.
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Family-Centered ApproachWe take time to get to know your child and your family. Our approach includes listening closely to your concerns and collaborating with you on recommendations that reflect your child’s needs and strengths.
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Convenient Location in South DakotaOur South Dakota location offers families access to expert evaluations without having to travel far. We’re committed to making high-quality care more available throughout the Midwest region.
The Stride Difference
Founded by a family just like yours, Stride was built by Brad Zelinger who made a career pivot to to create a mission-driven company dedicated to improving the lives of children with autism.
Inspired by his amazing sister Marisa who lives with a complex neurological disorder, Brad has assembled a world-class team of professionals and therapists to support toddlers and pre-school aged children from diagnosis throughout treatment.
Start with Stride
Learn how our South Dakota centers can help your child with autism.
Orland Park Location
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Insurances We Accept
What Is an Autism Spectrum Diagnosis?
An autism spectrum diagnosis helps families gain insight into how a child communicates, plays, and processes the world around them. The evaluation includes observations and standardized assessments led by professionals who specialize in early childhood development.
Why does early diagnosis matter? Identifying autism early can help families get the right support at the right time. Research shows early evaluations can:
- Strengthen social and communication development
- Reduce challenges related to behavior and routines
- Help children thrive at home, in school, and in everyday life
At Stride Autism Centers, our Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) guide every step of the evaluation with care and expertise. With thousands of hours of direct experience, they bring both clinical skill and a genuine commitment to helping young children grow. A diagnosis, if appropriate, is just the beginning—and our team will be there to support your family as you take the next step forward.
Who We Are
Stride Autism Centers is dedicated to support preschool-aged children ages 2 to 6 in South Dakota. We provide thoughtful, individualized diagnostic services for families seeking answers about their child’s development.
Our focus is simple: help children thrive by offering high-quality evaluations and guidance rooted in care and experience. From your first call to your final report, we’re with you—answering your questions, sharing insights, and making sure you feel supported every step of the way.
