What is a Psycho-Educational Assessment?
A psycho-educational assessment is a comprehensive assessment for children and adolescents, to understand the child/adolescent; their social, behavioural, emotional, as well as their cognitive and academic functioning. This includes their strengths and difficulties, the barriers or gaps in their learning or development, in order to support them better or help them move forward.
What does a psycho-educational assessment entail?
The initial part of the assessment involves gathering background information (i.e., developmental and educational history, reasons for referral/concerns from parents, caregivers, and teachers), and observations of the child. The formal part of testing includes working individually with the child to obtain a profile of the child’s cognitive abilities, which include their verbal and nonverbal problem-solving, memory, and speed of processing. The child’s academic ability is also assessed, so that any gaps in their learning can be identified and addressed accordingly. The information gathered, findings from testing, along with recommendations are then detailed in a written report during a feedback session with parents/caregivers. To facilitate communication and recommendations from the assessment, a key educator/learning support teacher may be encouraged to attend the feedback session as well.
How long does the assessment take?
The initial parent meeting and feedback meeting are usually scheduled for an hour, while the one-to-one assessments with the child can take up to 4-5 hours. As such, it may be recommended that assessments be spread over two sessions.
When might you consider getting a psychoeducational assessment done?
If you have observed that your child:
- Exhibits difficulties grasping concepts or retaining information
- Exhibits difficulties in specific areas (e.g., reading, writing, or math) despite showing strengths in other areas
- Seems disinterested in learning or bored in class
- Seems to be performing above his/her grade level
- Abilities are not reflected in their schoolwork
- Exhibits disruptive behaviour in class