How to Prepare Your Child for Psychological Testing
After booking a psychological assessment for your child, you might be feeling a mix of anticipation and uncertainty about how to prepare them for the process. It's completely normal to have questions about what lies ahead and how to make this experience as smooth and positive as possible for your child.
In this blog, I’ll share practical strategies to help you prepare your child effectively for their upcoming assessment.
Understanding Psychological Testing
Psychological testing is designed to offer a comprehensive view of how your child learns, thinks, interacts, and processes information and emotions. It’s important to emphasize that this assessment is not just about identifying a diagnosis, but about gaining insights that can help tailor support to their unique needs. This approach helps everyone involved—educators, caregivers, healthcare professionals, and other support staff—collaborate more effectively to support the child's overall development and well-being.
To help your child understand the purpose and benefits of the assessment, you might say:
“I’ve noticed that certain aspects of school have become more challenging for you this year. While you’re excelling in _______, _______ seems to be more difficult than usual. To help us better understand how you handle different things and find what works best for you, I’ve reached out to someone who can help. They’ll spend some time with you over a few days to come up with ways to make school a little easier and more fun.”
A Unique Kind of Appointment
Children often have preconceived notions about what a “doctor’s visit” entails, which can make them anxious. It’s important to reassure them that this appointment is different from a typical medical visit. There will be no shots or uncomfortable procedures involved. Instead, it’s an opportunity to explore how their brain works and discover what they need to thrive.
It’s also important to avoid calling this appointment a “test,” as the word can create unnecessary stress and confusion. Reassure your child that they don’t need to study or prepare, and there’s no passing or failing.
You might say: “Dr. Liliya will guide you through different activities to help us understand how you learn best, what your strengths are, and why some things might be challenging right now. Some activities will be fun, some will be easy, and some might stretch your skills a bit. If you’re worried or concerned about anything, let Dr. Liliya know so she can help make everything as comfortable and helpful as possible.”
Address Any Concerns:
If your child expresses hesitation or worries about the testing, it’s important to respond with empathy and understanding, acknowledging their feelings and providing reassurance to help them feel more at ease. Encourage them to share their thoughts and feelings throughout the process and involve them in decision-making where appropriate.
You might say: “It’s completely normal to feel unsure or worried about this process, and it’s okay to have those feelings. We want you to feel as comfortable as possible, so let’s talk about what’s on your mind. If there’s something specific that’s making you anxious, sharing your thoughts can help us address it together.”
Preparing your child for psychological testing is as much about building trust as it is about understanding their needs. The goal is to help them feel comfortable, safe, and confident throughout the process. By framing the assessment as an opportunity to discover their strengths and make things easier for them, you turn what might feel intimidating into something empowering. - Dr. Liliya
Tips for a Positive Experience:
Below are some practical tips for talking to your child about their upcoming assessment and helping them prepare. By keeping these in mind, you can make the experience more supportive, ensuring everything goes smoothly for both you and your child.
Tip #1: Choose a Comfortable Setting to Talk
When children hear they need to see a specialist or undergo an assessment, their immediate reaction might be worry or fear. They might wonder, “Did I do something wrong?” It’s important to reassure them that this isn’t about blame or punishment. To help ease their anxiety, have the conversation in a relaxed and enjoyable setting where they feel comfortable.
For instance, chatting over a favorite snack, like a bowl of ice cream, or during a fun activity, such as a walk in the park or playing a game, can make the discussion feel less daunting and more positive. This approach helps your child associate the assessment with a supportive and low-pressure environment, making it easier for them to engage openly and without unnecessary stress.
Tip #2: Use Their Words
Understanding and addressing your child’s perspective is key. Children often focus on different aspects of a situation and may describe their struggles in ways that adults interpret differently. For example, a child who procrastinates or avoids homework may feel they are constantly being nagged or pressured, with repeated reminders feeling stressful or annoying. This might cause them to think that no matter how hard they try, it’s never enough to satisfy their parents. Meanwhile, a parent may see this reluctance as a sign of irresponsibility or a lack of motivation.
To bridge this gap, try using the child’s own words to reframe the issue: “I’ve noticed we’ve been going back and forth a lot about homework, and I don’t want it to feel like I’m always nagging you. Let’s figure out together what’s making homework tough and see if we can make it easier for both of us.”
By acknowledging their perspective, you create an environment of empathy and support. This not only helps your child feel understood, but also makes the assessment process more engaging and relevant to them, increasing their motivation to participate.
Tip #3: Let Them Know What To Expect
To make your child feel more comfortable about the process, provide them with a clear and reassuring overview of what to expect. Introduce them to the psychologist they will be seeing by name (and photo if available), which can help personalize the experience.
For younger children, let them know that the assessment will involve fun activities with toys and games. For school-aged children, explain that the assessment will include activities that may involve more structured tasks like interactive problem-solving exercises, building things, drawing, and age-appropriate questionnaires. This approach helps your child understand the assessment as a series of engaging activities rather than a test, reducing stress and uncertainty.
Tip #4: Emphasize Choice and Control
When discussing assessments with your child, highlight their role in the process. Children may resist for various reasons, so reassure them that participation is voluntary. A reluctant participant may not fully engage or benefit from the assessment. Frame the assessment as a choice by involving them in the decision-making process. Encourage them to learn about it and decide if they feel comfortable moving forward. This sense of control fosters trust and can make children more open to the experience.
You might say, “I understand you’re not excited about the assessment, and that’s okay. This is your choice, and I’ll respect whatever you decide. If you’re interested, we can look at what the assessment involves together, and then you can decide if it feels right for you.”
Tip #5: Maintain Their Regular Schedule
To help prepare your child for psychological testing, keep their regular routine leading up to the appointment. Ensure they eat a nutritious meal and get a good night’s sleep beforehand. A familiar schedule can significantly reduce anxiety and make the process feel more comfortable, allowing your child to approach the testing with a sense of security and readiness.
Tip #6: Come Prepared
To help your child feel more comfortable during psychological testing, consider bringing a few essential items to the appointment. Start with identification and insurance information, as well as any previous evaluations or reports that might be relevant. It's also helpful to prepare a list of specific concerns or questions you want to address during the assessment. Additionally, bringing along comfort items—like a favorite toy or blanket—can provide emotional support. Snacks and water are great for keeping energy levels up, and a notebook or journal can encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings. Having these items on hand can create a supportive environment, allowing your child to focus on the assessment with greater ease.
Tip #7: Plan a Fun Post-Appointment Activity
To help your child feel more at ease about the psychological assessment, let them know that they can choose a fun activity to do afterward. This gives them a sense of control and creates positive anticipation, making them more motivated to participate in the process.
You might say, “After the assessment, we can celebrate your hard work! Here are a few options: we could go to the park, have a movie night at home, or get your favorite treat. Which one sounds the best to you?” By involving them in the decision, you reinforce their sense of choice and make the experience more enjoyable. This approach also helps shift their focus from any anxiety about the appointment to the fun activity they’ll get to enjoy afterward.
Preparing your child for psychological testing involves clear communication, reassurance, and addressing any concerns they may have. By framing the process positively and involving them in the conversation, you help make the experience more manageable and productive.
Psychological testing is a powerful tool that can offer valuable insights into your child’s learning and cognitive needs. With the right approach, you can ensure that your child feels supported and understood, paving the way for a successful assessment and improved educational outcomes.
Ready to uncover insights that will empower your child’s future? Reach out today to schedule a comprehensive assessment and take the first step toward tailored support and success.