For this week, we focus on preparing your child for an assessment, aiming to approach the process with honesty and respect.
Main Focus: Realistic and Respectful Preparation
Dr. Liz advises that we should be real and respectful with kids about the assessment process. Wonderfully Wired children already know they are different. It’s important not to pretend an assessment isn't about that.
Explain what will happen in a way that is honest but not overwhelming. For example, you might say, "You’re going to meet with someone who wants to learn about how you think and learn. They will ask you some questions and give you some activities to do."
Introduce the idea that everyone has unique ways of thinking and learning. Perhaps a clarification is in order. We say a child is neurodivergent (or Wonderfully Wired) if their way of thinking and learning is different from the neurotypical majority. However, we say that all people are neurodiverse (or just Wonderful). This means that all brains have strengths and challenges and are unique from the others around them.
Normalising the Process
We should normalise talking about the brain's strengths and challenges. Using the child’s own words helps them feel included and understood. Reinforce that having unique learning ways is within the range of normal and brings its own strengths.
Feedback Process
In the feedback process following an assessment, ideally, our assessor can help explain children's strengths and challenges using their own words. It’s essential that kids know they are not outside of the norm, that there are others with brains similar to theirs and that tools exist to help them understand their unique ways of learning.
Action Step:
Order Dr. Liz’s workbook to facilitate these discussions and work through it together with your child. This workbook provides practical exercises and activities to help your child understand and articulate their experiences. You can do so at explainingbrains.com or contact me if you are based in Southern Africa and would like a copy.
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