Dr. Elman takes time to get to know each child and understand the family’s reasons for seeking an evaluation. The process varies according to whether the child is coming for gifted testing or a comprehensive evaluation of learning and attention difficulties.
Arranging an Evaluation
Testing sessions are scheduled in the morning so children can participate when they are rested and alert. Testing before a full day of school helps reduce the effects of fatigue on concentration and stamina, allowing children to perform at their best.
Contact Dr. Elman to discuss the evaluation you are considering and schedule an appointment. Please let her know about any previous testing and any school or examination deadlines. She will explain the evaluation process and which forms and records are needed.
After you and Dr. Elman have agreed on a time for your gifted testing appointment, please complete the Gifted Testing Policies and Card Authorization form and securely save your card. Your appointment is not confirmed until these steps are complete and you receive an acknowledgment text from Dr. Elman. No payment is charged during card setup.
Preparing Your Child
Evaluations include a variety of activities that many children find enjoyable. Parents often tell Dr. Elman that their children would like to return and complete the activities again.
Dr. Elman will guide parents on how to explain the evaluation to their child, taking into account the child’s age and the reason for the assessment. Keep the explanation simple and reassuring, and avoid creating pressure to achieve a particular score or qualify for a program.
During the Evaluation
Gifted testing is completed in one session, with the length depending on the child’s age and pace. Comprehensive evaluations take place over multiple days. Dr. Elman monitors attention and fatigue and provides breaks as needed.
For comprehensive evaluations, she meets with parents to gather background information, reviews relevant records and any previous evaluations, and obtains information from teachers. As appropriate, she also gathers input from physicians, mental health counselors, and tutors. An in-school observation is conducted when authorized by the parent and permitted by the school.
Results and Recommendations
For gifted evaluations, Dr. Elman calls parents on the day of testing to discuss the results. Parents generally receive a written report within two business days. The report explains the child’s cognitive profile and includes educational recommendations tailored to the child’s abilities and learning needs. When the results support consideration for gifted services, Dr. Elman also guides parents on submitting the report to their child’s school.
For comprehensive evaluations, parents receive a written report explaining the assessment findings and recommendations tailored to their child’s strengths and needs. After parents have reviewed the report, Dr. Elman meets with them to explain the results, answer questions, and discuss how to put her recommendations into practice, including decisions about educational programs and school options.
Working With the School
Dr. Elman meets with school personnel to explain comprehensive evaluation findings and assist with educational planning, including IEP or Section 504 meetings when the school permits her participation.
The school team makes formal decisions about eligibility for school-based services and accommodations.
Contact Dr. Elman