Helping Your Child Navigate Psychological Assessments: A Guide for Parents

Anxiety Disorders

Apr 29

Written By Dr. Glori Gray

A guide for parents as they prepare children for testing

3 min read

What You'll Learn

How can parents effectively discuss assessments with their children?
What steps can parents take to prepare their children for the assessment process?
What strategies can parents use to address their child's concerns about undergoing an assessment?

As parents, we want the best for our children, especially when it comes to their education. Sometimes, though, we encounter challenges in understanding how our children learn and how best to support them. This is where assessments can play a crucial role. However, talking to your child about assessments and preparing them for the process can be daunting.

In this blog post, we'll explore some effective strategies for discussing assessments with your child and ensuring they feel comfortable and empowered throughout the process.

Starting the Conversation:

One of the first steps in preparing your child for an assessment is initiating the conversation. Keep it simple and focus on the benefits, such as helping teachers understand how to teach them better, parents knowing how to support them, and empowering the child to advocate for themselves. You might start by saying something like, "I've noticed you've been working hard on [subject] lately, but it still seems challenging. I think if we knew more about how you learn best, we could make things easier for you."

Describing the Process:

It's essential to demystify the assessment process for your child. Explain that it involves various activities, such as puzzles, games, and discussions, aimed at understanding their learning style and strengths. Assure them that it's not about being sick or doing something wrong – it's about learning how to make learning easier and more enjoyable for them.

Seeking Their Input:

Encourage your child to ask questions about the assessment process. This not only helps the psychologist understand their needs but also empowers the child to take an active role in their education. Be patient and give them time to think about their questions, and don't hesitate to ask multiple times if needed.

What if My Child Doesn't Want to Be Assessed?

If your child is hesitant about undergoing an assessment, it's essential to address their concerns and fears. Use their own language to describe the issues they're facing, and assure them that the assessment is not mandatory. Offer them choices and let them know they can attend a preliminary session to see what it's all about before making a decision.

Navigating assessments with your child can be a challenging but ultimately rewarding experience. By starting the conversation, demystifying the process, seeking their input, and respecting their choices, you can help your child feel empowered and supported throughout the assessment process. Remember, assessments are not about labeling or judging your child – they're about understanding how they learn best and helping them reach their full potential.