Talking To Kids About Assessment:

For young kids (completing a single assessment such as an IQ test for school admission or more comprehensive testing including social/emotional and developmental testing), they should understand that they are going to meet with someone that..."knows a lot about how kids learn (or "...about child development")...they will work on activities with that person and a parent will be close by but outside the room. They will have breaks and can play with some of the small toys in the waiting area during that time..." Kids can bring a comfort toy/object (e.g., favorite small blanket, teddy, etc.). Our offices have water and snacks but children can certainly bring their own items as well. 

For older kids completing an assessment, they should understand that they will meet with a psychologist to complete several different sets of activities (or assessments) to "...help us understand how you learn best, and anything we can do to support you in your success". Kids completing social-emotional assessments should also understand that some of the assessments are designed to "...help us understand how we can support you with any stress you are feeling." More specific descriptions can certainly be provided, especially if a family has previously discussed difficulties that can now be tied to this assessment. For instance, if someone has historically struggled with focus or anxiety the assessment can be tied to identifying the right recommendations for "...making things better". 

As a parent, your can help by:

  • Being open and patient: Reassure your child that the assessment is not a test, and that there are no right or wrong answers. 

  • Explaining the process: Let your child know that the assessment is a series of activities that will help them learn how they best learn. “We’re going to meet with someone who will help us learn more about how we can support you. They might ask some questions and do some activities with you to see what we can do to help you feel your best.”

  • Encouraging communication: Keep the lines of communication open before, during, and after the assessment. Encourage your child to share their feelings and thoughts. “It’s normal to feel a little nervous about meeting someone new, but remember, this is all about helping us understand what we can do to make things better or easier for you.”

Tell your child that an assessment can:

  • Discover their strengths: Everyone has unique talents, and the evaluation can help pinpoint them.

  • Learn how they learn best: This knowledge can be used to tailor their education and activities for greater success.

  • Get the support they need: If there are challenges, the evaluation can help identify them and create a plan to address them.