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: 

Often, we see children with a condition or illness that may have changed the brain.

A few conditions may be:

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:

They also assess:

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.

How can I help my child prepare for the testing?

Let your child know:

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.  

What to do if you cannot come to your appointment

ALERT

Call your child’s doctor, nurse, or clinic if you have any questions or concerns or if your child has special health care needs that were not covered by this information.