Psycho-Educational Assessments for Children
SA PAEDIATRICS AND NEWBORNS ( SAPAN)
What is a Psycho-Educational Assessment for Children?
Psycho-educational assessments are often conducted when a child is experiencing challenges with their learning or if they are not progressing at a rate that is expected for their age. They are also used when there are general concerns about the child’s development or if the child presents with exceptional needs that may require individualised adjustments at school.
Psycho-educational assessments are conducted by psychologists trained in administering and interpreting standardised psychological tests.
They provide information about a child’s intellectual abilities and academic skills to help understand the child’s learning needs. We can identify and diagnose learning difficulties or disabilities, giftedness, and intellectual disability, and assess attention issues or emotional and/or behavioural difficulties.
The potential benefits of assessment
Better understanding of your child’s intellectual abilities and academic skills.
Identification and diagnosis of learning difficulties, giftedness, global developmental delay, and intellectual disability.
Increased understanding of your child’s learning style
Understanding of how your child is developing in relation to other children their age.
Individualised recommendations and targeted strategies.
What is assessed?
A psycho-educational assessment utilises standardised assessment tools to explore your child’s cognitive functioning with the aim of identifying thinking, reasoning and problem- solving skills.
The assessment will review aspects of verbal comprehension, fluid reasoning, spatial awareness, working memory and processing speed.
This component of the assessment is sometimes commonly known as an IQ test.
Literacy and numeracy development is assessed as part of the educational component.
How is your child tested?
Our psychologists are highly skilled and experienced in working with children and adolescents. They will ensure that each step in the assessment process is carried out using a caring, child-centered approach.
Our psychologists spend time engaging with your child and allow for rest breaks and flexibility in assessment in order to allow your child to work to the best of their ability.
We will collect background information using questionnaires, checklists, and interviews, and provide a feedback appointment and a detailed written report.
What if my child needs other therapies?
While each therapy is unique, they can also overlap and complement each other in addressing a child’s overall development. Working together, these therapies can provide a comprehensive and holistic approach to support a child’s physical, cognitive and emotional growth.
The need for additional services will depend on your child’s specific needs and progress and our occupational therapist can assist you with this.
To seek further information about our services or book an appointment please contact SA Paediatrics and Newborns on 08 7081 9819.
FIND OUT MORE
Contact SA Paediatrics and Newborns for more information or to book an appointment on 08 7081 9819.