How to prepare my child for a cognitive assessment

As a parent, it’s completely natural to want your child to do well in a cognitive assessment, especially when it's tied to school placement or a potential diagnosis. However, the way you prepare your child can make a big difference in how they experience the process.

Cognitive assessments are designed to measure a child's thinking skills, such as memory, attention, problem-solving, and reasoning. They offer valuable insight into how your child learns and where they might need support. Unlike traditional tests, these assessments aren't something to "study" for. In fact, trying to prepare your child too much can create unnecessary stress and may even affect the accuracy of the results.

Children can become anxious if they feel pressure to perform. The best way to support them is by helping them feel calm, confident, and comfortable. Emphasise that the assessment isn’t something to pass or fail—it’s simply a way to learn more about how their brain works. Focus on practical preparation: ensure your child gets plenty of sleep the night before, eats a nutritious breakfast with low sugar, and brings a water bottle and healthy snack.

You can also talk to your child in a reassuring and age-appropriate way about what to expect. Describe the session as a series of fun puzzles and activities guided by a friendly adult—someone similar to a teacher. Avoid using words like “test,” “exam,” or “assessor,” which might feel intimidating.

Ultimately, the goal is for the assessment to capture your child’s natural abilities. By creating a low-pressure, supportive environment, you help them show up as their true self. Trust the process—these results are a helpful step toward understanding your child’s unique learning profile and getting them the right support moving forward.