-Prepare your child by letting them know what the day will look like.

-Try to avoid using words that may cause resistance or unnecessary anxiety such as testing or hard work, or misrepresent what they will do such as telling them they will be playing games or playing with toys.

-For older children, explain that all kids learn in different ways and that the tasks they will be doing will help parents and teachers understand how they best learn.

-Let your child know that they will be meeting with Dr. Cygan aka “Dr. Heather” alone and reassure them that while I am a doctor, they are not getting a shot!

-The testing process involves a variety of tasks, including puzzles, manipulating blocks, answering questions, and various other tasks, depending on their age.

-Your child will be challenged, but will also have fun with some of the tasks and are not expected to know the answer to everything.

-Similar to testing that occurs at school, make sure your child gets a good night sleep and eats prior to their appointment.

-When making the appointment, Dr. Cygan will give an estimated time for the day of testing. Depending on the type of evaluation, age of the child, referral question, and of course, your kiddo!

-Whenever possible, testing will be completed in one day, but in some circumstances, testing is best completed over two days to ensure your child's optimal functioning and performance.

-Although not typically needed, bathroom and “brain breaks” are taken as needed to avoid fatigue.

-Arrive early to familiarize your child with the space and Dr. Heather.

-For children 13 and younger, it is required for parents to stay in the waiting room for the duration of testing.

-For children over 13, parents can leave at their discretion and provide a number where they can be immediately reached in case of emergency.

-Test results will be scored, interpreted, and integrated into a report within 2-3 weeks.

-The feedback session is a time to review the test results, any applicable diagnoses, and discuss recommendations, as well as address and answer any questions and concerns.

-You will be provided with a written report following the feedback session. Typically a few days after the feedback session.

-The report is a comprehensive write-up of the testing results, specific recommendations tailored to your child's needs, and recommendations for accommodations when appropriate.

-Recommendations are geared to assist parents, teachers, and other professionals working with the child to help develop a plan to make your child successful.