Testing day works best when children feel safe, well-rested, and informed. A little preparation in the days leading up to the appointment goes a long way toward getting an accurate picture of your child's true abilities.
The night before
- Aim for a normal bedtime and a full night of sleep.
- Lay out comfortable clothes — no scratchy tags or new shoes.
- Charge any glasses, hearing aids, or assistive devices.
- Keep the evening calm; skip screens close to bedtime.
The morning of
- Serve a familiar, protein-rich breakfast.
- Bring a water bottle and a couple of favorite snacks.
- Give regular medications as prescribed unless your provider asked otherwise.
- Plan to arrive 10–15 minutes early so no one feels rushed.
How to talk about it
Keep the explanation short and honest. For most kids, something like this works well:
"Tomorrow we're meeting with a doctor who helps kids learn about how their brain works best. You'll do puzzles, games, and questions — some easy, some tricky. There's no studying and no grades."
Reassure your child that it's okay to take breaks, ask questions, and say "I don't know."
What to bring
- Any prior evaluations, IEPs, or 504 Plans
- A list of current medications
- Glasses or hearing aids
- A snack and water bottle
After the appointment
Plan something low-key afterward. Testing is hard mental work, and most kids are tired. A favorite meal, time outside, or quiet time at home is the perfect reward.