Welcome to a special episode of the Speaking of Kids Podcast! Today, we’re diving deep into the world of pediatric neuropsychology with Dr. Miles-Mason, co-founder of Kid CenterEd and a seasoned pediatric neuropsychologist. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or just curious about child development, this episode is packed with insights on how neuropsychological evaluations can be a game-changer for supporting children’s educational journeys.
Dr. Miles-Mason starts by demystifying what a neuropsychological evaluation entails. “It’s a comprehensive assessment that looks at how a child’s brain functions and how this impacts their behavior, learning, and social interactions,” she explains. The evaluation uses a variety of tools and tests to measure cognitive abilities, executive functions, memory, language, motor skills, and emotional and social skills.
Dr. Miles-Mason also walks listeners through the process of a neuropsychological evaluation. “It starts with a detailed history of the child’s developmental milestones, academic records, and any previous medical or psychological tests,” she says. Following this, the child undergoes a series of sessions where various aspects of their cognitive and emotional functioning are assessed.
“The key,” Dr. Miles-Mason stresses, “is a thorough follow-up after the evaluation.” This involves discussing the results with parents, providing detailed recommendations, and often, collaboration with the child’s school.
She leaves us with a powerful reminder: “These evaluations are not just about identifying problems; they’re about fostering an environment where children can thrive.” For parents and educators, understanding the specific needs of a child is the first step in being truly supportive.
For more resources on pediatric neuropsychology or to listen to previous episodes, don’t forget to subscribe to our Speaking of Kids Podcast. Let’s continue making every child’s educational experience as fulfilling as possible!