There are ways that families can help set the stage for a more positive assessment experience for both child and parents. In reviewing the following points, we would ask that you fully consider the individual needs of your child in determining a preparation plan that will best support your child in producing a more optimal performance. 1. Preview Talk with your child about where you are going, whom you will be seeing, and what you will be doing during the assessment. For example, if your assessment will take place in our clinic, you can access our website and look at pictures of the team who will be involved in your child’s assessment. The words “testing” and “assessment” may be aversive or meaningless for many children – we recommend use of statements such as “you will be doing lots of different things together, kind of like puzzles and games.” Let your child know that the people will be friendly, the setting will be comfortable, and that s/he or she can take breaks if they need to while they are here. 2. Be physically and emotionally prepared Avoid planning non-routine events on the evening prior to the assessment if possible. On the day of the assessment: Ensure your child will be well-rested and physically well on the day of the evaluation. Make the assessment day a stress-free day for your child. Ensure your child has eaten. Your child may like to bring a snack and drink to the session. Allow your child to bring an object that may help increase their sense of safety and security. Try to choose an object that will not be too distracting for the child (e.g., a small stuffed animal). 3. Outline positive expectations It is easy to fall into the trap of outlining what we do not want from a child when preparing for an upcoming event, resulting in a list of anxiety-producing “don’ts” in the child’s mind. Restate a “don’t” into a “do”. Use vaguely-stated positive expectations such as “work as hard as you can”. 4. Relax and let the process unfold We know it is easier said than done. Many children are hyper-attuned to the emotional states of their parents and will show signs of anxiety if parents give out those signals. Try to let go of any desire or expectation of performance.