How to Prepare Your Child for a Psychological Assessment

If your child is scheduled for a psychological assessment, it’s completely normal to have questions about what to expect. Many parents worry about how their child will feel, whether they’ll be nervous, or how they can best prepare them for the experience. 

The goal of an assessment is to gain a better understanding of how your child thinks, learns, solves problems, and experiences the world. This information provides valuable insights to support your child's success at home, at school, and in everyday life.

Here are a few ways you can help your child to feel confident and prepared for their assessment:

Explain the Purpose Using Child-Friendly Language

Depending on your kiddo's age, we want to use language that they can understand. Children feel most comfortable when they know why they’re going somewhere. Think back to when you were a kid and what you would have liked to know. 

An example might be: 

“You’re going to meet someone who is an expert in how children learn. They’ll spend some time talking with you, asking you questions, and doing different activities with you. Their job is to understand how your brain learns and thinks so they can help us find the best ways to support you at school, home, and in everyday life.”  

Reassure That There is no Passing or Failing

One of the biggest concerns kids have is whether they will get the “right” answers. It’s our job to help them understand that a psychological assessment is not like a school test. Some tasks might feel really easy, and others might feel really hard. That’s completely normal and expected; we’re just exercising their brain to see how it moves! 

Focus on Putting Forth a Best Effort

We want to encourage your child to try their best and be themselves during the assessment. An honest effort paints the most accurate picture of your child’s strengths and needs. Your psychologist will do their best to make sure everyone feels as comfortable as possible. 

Be Honest About What to Expect

Kiddos often feel much less anxious when they know what to expect. Explain that they might complete a variety of activities such as:

• Puzzles

• Questions and discussions

• Learning activities

• Problem-solving tasks

• Reading or writing activities (depending on the assessment)

  
  

Let Them Know Breaks are Available

Assessments can be long, and children sometimes worry that they won’t be allowed to stop if they feel tired. You can let your kiddo know that breaks are a normal part of the process and that they can ask for one at any time. Water, snacks, stretching, and moving are encouraged when needed! 

Prepare for the Day

Before the assessment: 

• Ensure your child gets a good night's sleep

• Provide a nutritious meal or snack beforehand

• Follow normal routines as much as possible

• Bring any recommended items, such as glasses, hearing aids, or comfort objects

  
  

If possible, schedule appointments during the time of day when your child is usually at their best and most alert.

Plan for a Relaxing Evening Afterwards

Assessments require a lot of mental energy. Even children who enjoy the experience are often tired afterward. Try to keep the rest of the day low-key. Consider ordering take-out, making a favourite meal, watching a movie together, or simply allowing time to relax and recharge. Avoid scheduling major activities or commitments immediately after testing sessions. 

Support Yourself as a Parent

Children take their emotional cues from the adults around them. If you approach the assessment with curiosity and confidence, your child is more likely to feel the same way. The experience can often feel daunting for parents too! Know that your psychologist is there to support your family and is happy to answer any questions or concerns you may have.  

Strengths-Based Process

One of the most important things to remember is that we’re not looking to find something “wrong” with your child. We want to identify strengths, understand challenges, and discover ways to help children thrive. By learning more about how your child learns and thinks, everyone involved can work together to create supports that can help them reach their full potential. 

And if your child needs a little extra motivation? There’s nothing wrong with ending the day with pizza, ice cream, or another favourite treat. Sometimes having something fun to look forward to makes the experience feel a little easier.