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 from birth to age 18 years with a condition or illness that may have changed the brain who is having problems with thinking or learning may benefit.
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.
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 before the testing visit. We will also ask you questions. Please bring all records and test results or Individualized education plans (IEP) to the visit or send in a MyChart message.
- 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 to 4 hours.
- It is helpful to schedule a visit that is not during your child’s naptime.
- Leave brothers and sisters in school, at home, or in daycare.
What to do if you cannot come to your visit:
- 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 a visit call Central Scheduling at 414-607-5280.