Cognitive Assessment for Children

At The Psych Edit, we provide comprehensive cognitive assessments to evaluate a child's intellectual functioning and adaptive skills. Using the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC-V) and the Adaptive Behaviour Assessment System (ABAS-3), we assess children aged 6 to 16 years and 11 months.

The WISC-V measures cognitive abilities such as verbal comprehension, perceptual reasoning, working memory, and processing speed, helping to identify learning strengths and weaknesses, support educational planning, and diagnose intellectual disabilities or giftedness. The ABAS-3 evaluates adaptive functioning, focusing on communication, social skills, and practical abilities, and is useful for identifying support needs in individuals with developmental disorders. Together, these assessments provide a holistic view of a child's cognitive and adaptive functioning, aiding in diagnostic and educational decisions.

Reasons for a Cognitive Assessment

1. Academic Concerns: If your child has challenges at school, an assessment can help identify specific learning challenges and inform tailored interventions.
2. Behavioural Issues: Behavioural concerns, such as difficulties with attention or social interactions, can sometimes be linked to cognitive processing. Assessment can clarify these relationships.
3. Giftedness: If you suspect your child may be gifted, an assessment can provide evidence of advanced cognitive abilities and help guide appropriate educational placement.
4. Developmental Delays: Early identification of cognitive delays can facilitate early intervention strategies that support your child’s development.
5. Diagnostic Clarification: If there are questions regarding a diagnosis, such as ADHD or learning disabilities, assessments can provide critical data to support accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

What is the Assessment Process? 

• Initial Consultation: Conducted with parents or caregivers to gather background information.
• WISC-V Assessment: Takes place in the clinic with the child. The assessment duration is typically 1-2 hours.
• ABAS-3 Assessment: Questionnaire emailed to parents or caregivers. Duration is approximately 1-2 hours to complete.
• Scoring and Report Writing:  The scoring and report writing process will take approximately 3-4 weeks to complete. The report will include diagnostic details of intellectual disability, giftedness, or average abilities. This report can support NDIS applications for intellectual disability. Additionally, the report can be used to structure tailored supports within school and community environments.

A cognitive assessment can provide essential insights into your child’s learning needs and developmental profile. If you have concerns or would like to explore the possibility of a cognitive assessment for your child, please contact us to schedule a consultation. We are here to support you and your family on this journey.

*Kindly be aware that The Psych Edit provides assessments specifically designed for fully verbal clients.