When a child struggles in school, it can be a source of worry and confusion for parents. Understanding the reasons behind these struggles is the first step toward helping your child succeed. School challenges may indicate an underlying learning disability such as dyslexia, or result from differences in a child’s ability to regulate their attention and executive functioning, as is common in neurodivergence. Mental health challenges such as anxiety or depression can also impact a child’s ability to engage in learning. One effective way to uncover the source of academic struggles is through psychoeducational testing. Taking steps to learn how a child’s brain learns best, understanding options for supporting learning vulnerabilities and working with a child to implement supports and develop strategies for learning can make a dramatic difference in the well-being and success of a child.
What is Psychoeducational Testing?
Psychoeducational testing is a comprehensive assessment process designed to evaluate a child’s cognitive, academic, and emotional functioning. A licensed psychologist or educational specialist typically conducts this type of testing, which involves a series of standardized tests and observations. The goal is to identify specific learning disabilities, cognitive strengths and vulnerabilities, and any social-emotional factors that might be impacting a child’s school performance.
How to Know if Your Child Should Be Tested
Several signs may indicate that your child could benefit from psychoeducational testing:
- Academic Struggles: Consistent difficulties with reading, writing, math, or other subjects.
- Attention Regulation Differences: Difficulty staying focused on non-preferred tasks, easily distracted, or a high need for movement and activity.
- Emotional Distress: Signs of anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem.
- Difficulty with Emotion Regulation: Becoming easily upset or dysregulated, strong reactions to everyday demands, conflict with peers or adults.
- Developmental Differences: Meeting speech, motor skills, or other developmental milestones later than most peers.
If teachers have expressed concerns or if you notice these signs persisting over time, psychoeducational testing may be worthwhile.
What Testing is Like for the Child
Psychoeducational testing can seem daunting, but it’s designed to be as comfortable as possible for the child. The process typically begins with an initial consultation between the parents and the clinician who will be conducting the evaluation to discuss concerns and gather background information. The testing itself is usually completed over two or more sessions, lasting several hours each. The testing environment is generally quiet and supportive, with breaks to ensure the child remains regulated and engaged. During these sessions, the child will complete various tasks, such as puzzles, memory games, reading exercises, and math problems. While completing the tasks, the provider will also ask about the child’s emotional experiences, observe the child’s responses and use of coping strategies, and watch for signs of emotional dysregulation. Parents and teachers are often asked to complete questionnaires to aid the evaluator in understanding how the child operates in the home and school environments. After the testing is complete, parents meet with the psychologist to discuss the results and recommendations. Finally, the testing clinician will prepare a thorough written report with specific findings and recommendations for school accommodations and additional support.
Benefits of Having a Diagnosis
A diagnosis provides clarity about why your child is struggling and what specific challenges they face. With a clear understanding of your child’s needs, teachers and parents can implement targeted strategies to help them succeed. With a provider diagnosis in hand, parents can open doors to special education services, accommodations, and therapies that can significantly improve the child’s educational experience. In many cases, an IEP and 504 plans might be recommended, and your school’s resource teachers and/or educational consultant can provide support for your family. Finally, knowing that there is a reason for their difficulties can reassure both the child and the parents, reducing feelings of frustration and helplessness.
Psychoeducational testing can be a vital tool in understanding and addressing a child’s struggles in school. By identifying underlying vulnerabilities and learning differences, a parent can provide support and resources to a child to help them thrive. If you suspect your child might benefit from this type of assessment, contact WBMA to inquire about our testing services.
