Resources for Families

According to the International Dyslexia Association (IDA), dyslexia is a language-based learning disability. Dyslexia refers to a cluster of symptoms, which result in people having difficulties with specific language skills, particularly reading. Students with dyslexia usually experience difficulties with other language skills such as spelling, writing, and pronouncing words. Dyslexia affects individuals throughout their lives; however, its impact can change at different stages in a person’s life. It is referred to as a learning disability because dyslexia can make it very difficult for a student to succeed academically in the typical instructional environment, and in its more severe forms, will qualify a student for special education, special accommodations, or extra support services.

According to the American Psychiatric Association (APA), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common mental health disorders affecting children.  It is estimated that 8.5% of children and 2.5% of adults have ADHD.  ADHD is often diagnosed in childhood as the individual experiences problems with school work and/or behavioral challenges in the classroom and/or home settings.  Symptoms of ADHD include having difficulty focusing (inattention), excessive movement (hyperactivity), and impulsive behaviors.  ADHD can lead to poor self-esteem, difficulties with social functioning, and academic difficulties.  

According to Autism Speaks, Autism or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is typically characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, and speech and nonverbal communication.  According to the CDC (2020), it is estimated that 1 in 36 children in the US are impacted by the challenges associated with the characteristics of Autism.  Autism may be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors.  Because each individual is unique, persons with Autism may exhibit individualized sets of strengths and challenges.  According to the CDC, signs of Autism can usually be recognized by 2 years of age.  Autism is often accompanied by challenges with sensory and medical issues, such as gastrointestinal (GI) disorders, seizures or sleep disorders, and can impact mental health by creating challenges related to anxiety, depression, and attentional issues.  The ADOS-2 is considered to be a gold standard instrument for the direct assessment of ASD in children and adults.

Gifted generally refers to a child (or adult) who demonstrates significantly advanced cognitive ability and/or academic potential compared to same-age peers.

Benefits of Having Gifted Testing Done Privately

Many families choose a private evaluation instead of (or in addition to) school testing. Key advantages include:

More Comprehensive Assessment

They often:

• Use a broader battery of tests

• Examine cognitive strengths and weaknesses in detail

• Look at twice-exceptional (2e) profiles (gifted + ADHD, ASD, LD, etc.)

• Can include executive functioning and processing speed analysis

Faster Timeline

School evaluations can take months due to:

• Referral processes

• Staffing limits

• Testing windows

Private evaluations can usually be scheduled and completed much faster.

Greater Test Flexibility

Schools often use only district-approved instruments. Private evaluators can:

• Choose the most appropriate test for the child

• Use extended batteries when needed

• Follow up on uneven profiles

Detailed Written Report

Private reports are typically more detailed and may include:

• Rich cognitive profile interpretation

• Educational planning recommendations

• Enrichment and acceleration guidance

• Social-emotional considerations common in gifted learners

These reports can be useful for:

• School placement discussions

• Advocacy

• Private school admissions

• Scholarship or program applications

Helpful for Advocacy

A private evaluation can:

• Provide independent documentation

• Support requests for acceleration or differentiation

• Clarify when a child is being overlooked due to behavior, anxiety, or uneven skills

Better Identification of Twice-Exceptional Students

Gifted students with learning or attention differences are often missed in school screenings. Private testing is more likely to detect:

• Gifted + ADHD

• Gifted + dyslexia

• Gifted + autism

• Gifted + executive functioning weaknesses

A student's ability to achieve social, emotional, and cognitive milestones can be impacted by mental health.  The National Survey of Children's Health in 2016 estimated that 3.2% of US children and adolescents were effected by depression and 7.1% were diagnosed with a type of anxiety.  Currently, anxiety is the most prevalent mental health concern affecting our children.  Signs of anxiety can be displayed as early as by age 2 or 3 and are often first noticed as separation anxiety.  Anxiety may present as fear or worry, but can also make children irritable or angry.  Symptoms of anxiety can include trouble sleeping, fatigue, headaches or stomach aches.  The United States Preventive Services Taskforce states recommends screening for anxiety in children ages 8 to 18 due to the impact that it has on a child's emotional well-being and overall functioning.