Explaining Testing to my child

Neuropsychological testing is, at its heart, an act of curiosity. The purpose of an assessment is to learn about how your child learns. This helps teachers know how to teach them, it helps parents know the best ways to support them, and helps them to know how to ask for help. 

Before your child comes in, you'll want to tell them where they're going. Here's some guidance on how to have that conversation.

Don't have this conversation after a rough homework night or on the drive over. Find a moment that already feels easy like getting ice cream, taking a walk, throwing a ball around. When kids hear new information in a moment that feels relaxed and normal, they receive it differently. 

Use your own words. You know your child. But if you need a place to start:

"You know how everyone's brain is a little different and everyone learns differently? Some people learn best when someone explains things with words. Other people need to see a picture, or actually make something with their hands, before it clicks. Nobody learns exactly the same way. Dr. Mosdell sees lots and lots of kids, and her whole job is figuring out what each kid's special learning strengths are."

If your child has already been vocal about something being hard, like school, reading, sitting still, etc. start there instead:

"You know how you've been saying [their words]? Dr. Mosdell sees many kids who say the same thing and she helps us to find out what makes it hard and how to make things feel easier" 

"When we find out how your brain learns best, your teacher will know the best ways to teach you, I'll know the best ways to help you at home, and YOU will know how to tell people what you need. Pretty cool, right?"

"Dr. Mosdell's office has a lot of toys and games. She does different activities and puzzles with you."

"She also sometimes brings her dog Pip. We can let her know if you want her to bring Pip or if you don't want her to bring Pip. When Pip comes, she enjoys sitting on the couch with her favorite Squishmallow!" 

Bring a snack and a drink. Kids do better when they're comfortable, and there's plenty of room to take breaks.