School psychologist wants my child to get tested for autism. should we?

Yes: Hopefully, your child will not have an autism spectrum disorder. But the earlier the diagnosis is made, the better the prognosis. As with most medical conditions, early diagnosis and intervention improve long-term prognosis.

See below: Depends/ what is the reason testing is being suggested. If your child is having educational problems, then a diagnosis may qualify him for needed extra help. I would discuss the psychologists concerns with your doctor.

I'd say yes: Schools don't offer children access to special education supports unless there are real concerns, be open with them;if it didn't make sense to you the 1st time, request another meeting. If the " a" word surprised you, it may mean that your child has good cognitive skills, but struggles with reading comprehension, grasping concepts in math or relating to peers, often noticed in 3rd-4th grade.

Seek experts: No individual advice can be given, but if there are questions about neurodevelopmental disorders be they learning problems, adhd, or autism related disorders. In all probability if autism was suspected it would be before school years, and one must be concerned about overdiagnosis of autism spectrum disorder. Seek really good developmental pediatrician, pediatric neurologist or neuropsychologist.