A neuropsychological evaluation does not end the day your child meets with the neuropsychologist. The process usually takes place over one or two days of assessment with the child, and then continues. A few weeks later, the neuropsychologist meets with the parents to present the results.
During this feedback meeting, the neuropsychologist explains the child’s strengths, challenges, any diagnoses (if applicable), and possible support measures. An intervention plan is proposed, and a written report is provided to the parents.
This appointment, a few weeks after the evaluation, is often on the child’s mind. They know their parents are meeting with the neuropsychologist and wait for their return with curiosity—sometimes even with worry. They wonder: “What will the neuropsychologist say? What will my parents find out?”
This feedback meeting leads to another important step: communicating the results to the child. And it is precisely at this moment that many parents ask themselves how to explain the information in a clear, reassuring, and age-appropriate way.
Reassure and Value the Child
Before talking about difficulties, it is essential to emphasize strengths.
Explain to your child that the neuropsychologist took time to highlight their personal and intellectual qualities.
For example, you might say:
“The neuropsychologist told us about your intelligence, your curiosity, and your creativity. We already knew that, but it was nice to hear it confirmed.”
This first message reassures the child and reminds them that they are, above all, a person full of strengths. It also helps them receive the rest of the discussion with greater confidence.
Explain the Cognitive Profile Simply
The detailed results of an evaluation are too complex to share with a child. The goal is not to provide a technical report but to communicate the main points.
The child should understand that their difficulties are real, not imaginary, and not the result of a lack of effort. They are based on neurological and cognitive factors.
For example:
“You know, if it’s harder for you to concentrate or learn to read, it’s not because you’re not trying hard enough. It’s because your brain works differently. Everyone has strengths and challenges. Yours is learning to read.”
This message lifts the weight of guilt and reduces the risk of the child seeing themselves as lazy or incapable.
Name the Disorder and Explain Its Meaning
If a learning disorder has been identified, it helps to name it.
For example:
“Your reading difficulties are explained by something called dyslexia. It’s a condition you were born with. For you, learning to read is harder and takes more time. But it’s not impossible.”
Giving a concrete name helps the child understand and put words to their reality. It also shows them they are not alone—other children experience the same thing.
Restore Hope and Confidence
After naming the challenges, the message should turn toward the future. The child needs to know that they will be supported.
You might conclude with:
“Even if things are harder for you, that doesn’t mean you can’t succeed. You’ll have to work hard, sometimes harder than others, but you’re not alone. We’ll be here to help, and so will your teachers. Now that we know about your learning difficulty, we have tools to support you better.”
This helps end the discussion on a positive, encouraging note.
Practical Tips
- Keep the exchange brief (10 to 15 minutes). The child does not need to know everything at once.
- Let them ask questions, but don’t force the discussion.
- Use simple words, adapted to their age.
- Return to the subject later if needed—sometimes children need time to process the information.
In Summary
Communicating the results of a neuropsychological evaluation to a child is an important step. By first reassuring them about their strengths, then explaining their challenges in simple terms, and ending with a hopeful message, parents can help their child understand their reality without anxiety—and, most importantly, believe in their potential.
For more information on learning disorders and neuropsychological evaluation, explore our resources. To schedule an evaluation or get support, contact us.
