This
process will provide you with the insights you will need to help
your child. You will learn about your child’s strengths and
abilities and gain insight on her learning and developmental needs
through a thorough investigation. You will be provided with a comprehensive
report, including achievable and practical recommendations for home
and school activities.
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| 1. When should you consider an
Assessment for your child? When: |
- There seems to
be major discrepancy between your child’s ability and her
actual achievement in school. Your child can’t grasp grade-level
equivalent concepts, understand abstractions and/or recall information.
|
- Your child refuses to attempt any
reading, writing and/or spelling tasks. She has difficulties
deciphering and decoding words.
|
- The teachers complain that your child
is disruptive in class and purposefully defies them. She has
concentration problems and has difficulties completing tasks
and homework.
|
- You notice that your child has an
atypical number of worries and fears. She seems prone to be
emotional and sensitive to criticism, anxious in unfamiliar
situations and is generally shy and withdrawn. She also complains
that she has few friends and is socially detached from her peers.
She has low self esteem and confidence.
|
- The teacher observes that your child
has temper outbursts at the most trivial matters. She argues
with adults, blames others for her mistakes and misbehaviors.
You child can be spiteful and vindictive to her peers, teachers
and parents.
|
- Your child displays some form of
developmental or speech delay. This affects his/her abilities
to cope in school, communicate her needs and socialize with
her peers.
|
- You child exhibits certain behaviors
resembling children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Asperger’s
Syndrome.
|
| Methods of assessment vary according
to the needs of the individual. Those commonly used include: |
- Home, Classroom, and Playground Observation.
|
- Interviews and Checklists.
|
- Standardized psychometric Tests such as psychological, intellectual,
academic achievement or personality tests.
|
| A standard Assessment package
includes: |
| Initial Interview with Parents |
| This is a 1.5 hour consultation
with you regarding your child’s developmental milestones, medical
history and social & emotional abilities. Alicia will work closely
with your doctor, pediatricians and other professionals to ensure
fully integrated care for your child. |
| Formal Assessment |
| Alicia uses formal assessment tools
to determine the child’s cognitive, academic, social &
emotional abilities. During the formal assessment, she also uses
her extensive clinical experiences to note any other significant
behaviors or abilities. |
| Classroom Observation and
Teacher Interview |
| Behavior in the classroom is a
good indicator of academic and social-emotional challenges that
may be affecting your child. An interview with her teachers and
a school visit are always helpful to give a holistic picture of
your child’s capabilities and challenges. |
| Feedback Session with Parents
and Teachers |
| This session will cover your child’s
functioning level, her strengths and her challenges. Alicia will
share with you practical and achievable recommendations for home
and school to better manage your child. Further meetings with the
teacher to discuss the recommendations are usually arranged so that
there are collaborative, aligned efforts between the school and
home. A comprehensive Psychological Report will be submitted to
the parents and the school if necessary. |
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