Preparing for Testing
Preparing for your Testing Appointment
The idea of taking your child to a psycho-educational assessment can be scary. Your child will be undergoing something that is not a part of their normal routine. Parents often ask me how to prepare their child for testing. While each child is different, here are a few tips that can be helpful.
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Scheduling your testing appointment:
You know your child better than anyone. I recommend you choose the days and times that your child is at his or her best. Additionally, to avoid feelings of resentment and help build rapport, do not schedule sessions that interfere with any special events at school, field trips, or any other well-loved activity.
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What do I tell my child?
Explain to your child that each person learns in a different way and that the information we will gather will help parents and teachers understand how he or she learns best. When speaking with your child do your best to avoid the word “test.” If tests are something they struggle with in school, hearing it before the session may remind them of that. They will not “pass or fail” any of the activities we will complete together, rather, they will only be asked to do their best. Explain to them that the activities will include a variety of questions, puzzles, drawings, and stories, as well as some school-like tasks. Children often find it fun to complete some of the tasks.
Please see the following brochure for further information:
Preparing Your Child for Testing
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Importance of sleep:
Make sure your child gets a restful night sleep and has eaten a healthy breakfast before coming in. Please try to keep your child from staying up very late or deviating from their normal routine. If your child is sick, please consider rescheduling your appointment. The best assessments are made when the child is awake and alert.
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Bring snacks:
During breaks, children often like to have a little snack. Please bring a snack and drink for your child, as this is often helpful to keep your child energized throughout the testing session.
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Keep medications as regularly prescribed:
Medications should be taken as usual on the testing day, unless otherwise indicated by the prescribing doctor.
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Try to give yourself plenty of time to arrive:
if you are rushing to get here your child might feel tense and nervous, and this can interfere with their performance.