Recently, I overheard a parent saying, “She’s doing great at school, but when she comes home, oh my gosh, she just falls apart and totally runs the house.”
It’s common for children to use much of their emotional and physical resources to ‘keep it together’ at school. As a result, some degree of ‘unraveling’ at home after school is normal and expected. However, if you consistently feel overwhelmed by your child’s behavior after school for an extended period (typically over two weeks), it may indicate that your child is struggling.
This doesn’t necessarily mean your child has a diagnosed learning or emotional difference. However, you and your family might benefit from seeking a neuropsychological evaluation for your child. This comprehensive assessment can help you:
- Understand your child’s overall functioning
- Identify any potential underlying issues
- Receive practical tips and strategies to manage the ups and downs of their day
By gaining these insights, you can better support your child’s emotional regulation and create a more harmonious home environment.
A neuropsychological evaluation can also be a valuable tool for understanding a student’s unique learning profile, whether it is initiated proactively or in response to specific challenges the student may be facing. Recognizing when to seek this type of evaluation is crucial for early identification of potential learning or developmental issues, as well as for providing insights into existing challenges that may affect a child’s academic, social, or emotional functioning. Here are five key indicators that suggest it may be time to consider an evaluation:
- Persistent Academic Difficulties
If a student is consistently struggling in academic areas despite receiving appropriate support and interventions, it may be time to seek an evaluation. This could manifest as ongoing challenges in reading, writing, or mathematics that do not improve with standard classroom strategies.
2. Attention and Focus Challenges
Students who exhibit ongoing difficulties with attention, such as trouble concentrating, completing assignments, or following multi-step directions may benefit from a neuropsychological assessment. This evaluation can help determine if attention-related issues, such as ADHD, are impacting their learning.
3. Social and Emotional Concerns
If a child is experiencing significant social difficulties or emotional regulation challenges—such as anxiety, depression, or disruptive behaviors that affect their interactions at school or home—an evaluation can provide valuable insights into their functioning across different environments.
4. Signs of Learning Disabilities
When there are indications of potential learning disabilities—such as dyslexia, dyscalculia, or other processing disorders—seeking an evaluation can clarify the nature of these challenges. The results can lead to targeted recommendations that support the student’s unique learning needs.
5. Major Life Transitions
Key transitions in a child’s educational journey—such as starting elementary school, entering middle or high school, or preparing for college—can also warrant an evaluation. Understanding a student’s strengths and challenges during these critical periods can ensure they receive the necessary support to thrive.
Ultimately, neuropsychological evaluations provide a comprehensive understanding of a student’s cognitive abilities, academic performance, and social-emotional health. The insights gained from these assessments can guide families and educators in developing tailored interventions and accommodations that foster success. While not every student facing challenges requires testing, recognizing persistent difficulties across multiple domains is essential in determining when an evaluation may be beneficial. By taking this proactive step, families can help ensure that students receive the support they need to reach their full potential.
