7 Reasons to Consider a Psychoeducational Evaluation Before School Starts

School struggles don’t magically disappear with a fresh backpack or new teachers. If your child has been falling behind, melting down, or losing confidence, a psychoeducational evaluation can give you answers before school stress ramps back up.

Here’s why summer is the perfect time to get it done:

✅ 1. Beat the Back-to-School Rush

Fall is when referrals spike—and waitlists grow. Testing during summer means you get results faster, with less stress.

✅ 2. Time to Process Results

Evaluations can reveal diagnoses, strengths, and challenges. Summer gives you time to read reports, ask questions, and actually understand what it all means.

✅ 3. Set Up IEPs or 504s Before Day One

Schools move slowly. Having completed testing in hand helps you schedule meetings and secure supports before the first day—so your child isn’t lost in the shuffle.

✅ 4. Reduce Anxiety for You and Your Child

Kids who know they’re struggling often fear the new school year. A clear plan helps them feel confident—and you feel prepared.

✅ 5. Avoid Academic Slide

Understanding what’s holding your child back can guide targeted summer interventions or tutoring—helping them start stronger in the fall.

✅ 6. Create Personalized Goals with Teachers

With updated data, you can advocate for goals, accommodations, and strategies that match your child’s current needs, not last year’s struggles.

✅ 7. Get Ahead of Behavioral Challenges

Academic frustrations often lead to avoidance, outbursts, or shutdowns. Addressing root causes early prevents a tough start that can set the tone for the whole year.

❤️ The Takeaway

A psychoeducational evaluation isn’t just paperwork—it’s the key to understanding why your child struggles and how to help them succeed. Doing it in summer sets your child up for confidence, support, and smoother transitions. 💚

Ready to schedule or learn more about evaluations?

📞 Call or text: 614-470-4466

📧 Email: admin@achievepsychology.org

🌐 Visit: www.achievepsychology.org

References:

1. National Association of School Psychologists. (2023). Psychoeducational Evaluations: Purpose and Benefits.

2. Wrightslaw. (2023). Timing Your Evaluation for IEP Success.

3. Understood.org. (2022). Back-to-School Planning with Learning and Attention Issues.

4. American Academy of Pediatrics. (2023). Learning Disabilities and Early Intervention.

5. Kaufman, A. S., & Lichtenberger, E. O. (2006). Assessing Adolescent and Adult Intelligence.