How to Prepare Your Child for a Psychoeducational Evaluation

Evaluations can feel intimidating to kids — especially kids who already associate school with struggle. A small amount of preparation dramatically improves how the testing goes.

What to Tell Your Child

Keep it simple and honest. "We are meeting with someone who is going to do some activities with you to figure out how your brain learns best. There is no passing or failing. Some things will feel easy, some things will feel hard. Your only job is to try your best."

What Not to Say

Avoid framing the evaluation around what is "wrong." Avoid high-stakes language ("This will tell us if you have a problem"). Avoid promises about outcomes ("This will make school easy").

The Practical Stuff

Make sure your child is well-rested the night before. Eat a regular breakfast. Arrive early so they are not rushed. Bring water and a snack for breaks. If they wear glasses, bring them. If there is any medication they take for attention or anxiety, discuss with the evaluator in advance whether to take it on testing day.

During the Evaluation

Most evaluators prefer parents to wait in the reception area rather than the testing room. Your child will be with the evaluator one-on-one for extended periods with built-in breaks. Children who feel safe usually warm up within the first session.

After the Evaluation

Ask your child how it went. Keep the conversation low-key. The report and feedback meeting will come in two to three weeks — do not push your child to interpret their own experience in the meantime.

At Fort Lee Psych

Evaluations at Fort Lee Psych use a warm, structured approach designed to reduce test anxiety. Sessions are scheduled to minimize fatigue for children across Bergen County.