A psycho-educational assessment involves a standardized assessment of a child’s intellectual and academic abilities. It is administered by a psychologist combined with clinical interviews, observations, and historical records to help understand how your child learns, and identify if and how they’re struggling. It measures overall aptitude and academic achievement around core skills, such as reading, writing and math. It involves a number of techniques, including pencil and paper activities, verbal responses, and the evaluation of motor skills (e.g., drawing, playing with blocks). The assessment varies based on a child’s age.

The results can help the psychologist understand your child’s potential (i.e., if they are gifted or have a learning disability) and provide strategies to support them. During these assessments, other concerns are also evaluated, such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder or anxiety, and recommendations for your child are based on a combination of standardized test results and the evaluation of psychosocial and/or mental health issues.

Typically, your child’s school will suggest a psychoeducational assessment if they notice that they are falling behind their peers. Sometimes, a teacher will bring it up with you directly. You may also notice signs that your child is struggling with reading, writing or math and want to take action. Learning difficulties are usually noticed around 2^nd year and STD one, but it can happen earlier or later.

The assessment is FREE with the Ministry of Education and will be performed at your child’s school by a psychologist. Unfortunately, wait times for a psychoeducational assessment through the school can be several months. Every school is different, and wait times vary.

If you want an assessment quickly, private clinics are an option. At Dare2Live Coaching Services, we offer them within two-four weeks. Some private insurance plans offer partial or complete coverage. It’s a good idea to first check with your provider to see if all or part of the cost is covered.

If the results indicate your child has a learning disability, rest assured they can thrive and succeed. The results from the psychoeducational assessment go from the psychologist to the school. They act as recommendations that will help your child’s teacher and the school psychologist design an individualized educational program (IEP) to accommodate your child’s needs, helping them progress and succeed.