 Our team often receives questions about pediatric neuropsychological evaluations – what they are, how to have them completed, and the value of having them done. This month, we are diving into the topic and sharing our insights and guidance from professional referral partners, focusing on what we would like parents to know about this resource. Neuropsychological Evaluations The assessment covers different functions of the brain important for learning and communicating. It allows the diagnostician to be able to understand how each child's brain processes and understands information. Then the pediatric neuropsychologist works with parents to help put support or services into place to help their child experience success. Neuropsychological evaluations for learning issues and/or differences include in-depth information in specific learning areas (reading, writing, math. etc.), including “what” the challenge is and “why” it is a challenge. This information regarding the “why” helps the student’s support team have more focused information to guide future tutoring/academic interventions. Neuropsychological evaluations can be recommended for a variety of reasons, including: - Helping determine a diagnosis for the student - Assessing cognitive strengths and weaknesses - Aiding in the planning of treatment or other intervention How to Have an Evaluation Completed If we refer a student for a Neuropsychological evaluation, they are given a referral to a trusted pediatric neuropsychologist who can complete the testing. Once all tests are completed and scored, the neuropsychologist will take the feedback and put together a summary report of the results. This report will include recommendations as well as referrals to other professionals if deemed necessary. Value of Neuropsychological Evaluations All together, the information gathered through the evaluation will help to clarify a student’s strengths and needs, including any specific difficulties or diagnoses that are interfering with their progress academically or in other important areas of life. Professionals recommend obtaining evaluations for a variety of reasons, including: - Ability to intervene early to positively change the trajectory of a student’s progress academically and/or emotionally - Serving as a guide for future interventions/recommendations - Using as a source of advocacy for the student to obtain an IEP or 504 plan at school, educational placements, etc. If you have any questions, please contact our team and let us partner with you to support your student and find the resources that are a best fit for them. |
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