Pediatric neuropsychology testing (1800)
Key points below
What is Pediatric Neuropsychology?
Pediatric neuropsychology studies how a child’s brain works. This includes how a child thinks and learns. A pediatric neuropsychologist is a doctor with training about brain structures and systems.Why might testing be done?
Any child between the ages of 6 months and 18 years who is having problems with thinking or learning may benefit from this testing.
Some reasons we may test children could be:
- To see how well the brain is working.
- To help with medical treatment and school planning.
- To know how the brain is working before and after certain treatments.
Often, we see children with a condition or illness that may have changed the brain.
A few conditions may be:
- Seizures or Epilepsy
- Brain tumors or lesions
- Genetic disorders
- Spina Bifida
- Traumatic brain injury or concussion
How is testing done?
The neuropsychologist uses paper and pencil questions and games to test a child’s thinking skills. Many of these tests look like what a child does at school. These tests look at your child’s:
- attention and how they organize information.
- language and social skills
- memory and how they learn.
They also assess:
- how your child thinks.
- how your child does in school.
These tests will help the doctor find ways to help your child learn better.
What should I expect?
You will be asked to fill out forms about your child’s feelings and how they act. We will also ask questions. Please bring all records and test results or Individualized education plans (IEP) to the appointment.
- Your child will do the testing with our staff. This will be done one-on-one in the clinic.
- Your child may have a snack during the breaks.
- You may be asked to wait nearby.
- Often, results and the treatment plan will be shared with you at the end of the testing.
How can I help my child prepare for the testing?
Let your child know:
- they will be with a doctor who wants to help them.
- they will do activities and tests like they do at school.
- there will be no shots or other medical procedures.
- you are bringing snacks for them to have during breaks.
Helpful tips
Most testing takes 3-6 hours. If your child is over 5, this may happen in one day. If your child is younger than 5 it may take more than one day in shorter sessions. Parents or guardians should bring all records of other tests or IEPs (individualized education plans) to the appointment. You will be asked questions about your child’s history. You will also complete surveys. These are about your child’s feelings and how they act.
- It is helpful to schedule an appointment that is not during your child’s naptime.
- Leave brothers and sisters in school, at home, or in daycare.
- Bring snacks for you and your child.
- There are dining options available in the hospital.
What to do if you cannot come to your appointment
- If you are unable to attend please call Central Scheduling at 414-607-5280 as soon as possible. You may also use My Chart.
- To reschedule an appointment call Central Scheduling at 414-607-5280.