Evaluation FAQ: What Parents Often Ask

That’s one of the most frequent questions we hear—and it’s completely valid!

Here’s the truth:

Our evaluators have tested thousands of students across all ages, abilities, and attention levels. We are trained to work with children who have learning differences, ADHD, anxiety, and other challenges that may impact focus or stamina.

  • Testing is conducted one-on-one, allowing us to tailor our approach to your child’s pace and needs.
  • We provide movement breaks and offer encouragement throughout the session.
  • If your child needs more time, we’ll adjust—no child is rushed or pushed beyond what they can handle.

You might be surprised at how well children do when they’re in a calm, focused setting with a warm adult who understands them.

We know it’s hard to step away—but for valid reasons, parents are not permitted in the testing room unless the evaluator specifically requests it.

This helps:

  • Preserve the standardized nature of the tests
  • Prevent unintentional influence or distraction
  • Allow your child to engage directly and independently

You’re welcome to wait nearby or run errands—we’ll text you 30 minutes before the session is expected to end.

Nope—it’s not what most kids expect when they hear the word “test”!

  • The evaluation comprises several short, engaging tasks, each designed to assess a distinct skill.
  • Activities may include listening to questions, selecting pictures, solving puzzles, spelling, identifying objects quickly, and more.
  • Tasks change frequently—they’re intentionally paced to keep your child’s attention.
  • Because it’s one-on-one, we’re able to move quickly and tailor the flow to your child’s energy level and style.

Think of it more like an interactive series of brain games rather than a typical classroom test.

Great question! Please pack:

  • A water bottle or drink
  • A nut-free snack (if desired)

Snacks and drinks are not provided on site, so feel free to send what works best for your child. Some parents also send a light jacket in case the testing room is cool.

We’ve been there—and we’re ready.

  • Our evaluators are experts at connecting with children. Many have conducted thousands of evaluations and understand how to build trust quickly.
  • Believe it or not, some kids start calling their evaluator a “bestie” within minutes of meeting!
  • If your child needs time to warm up, reset, or take breaks, that’s built into the process.
  • We closely monitor your child’s comfort and energy levels, adjusting as needed to support success.

We’re not just here to collect data—we’re here to help your child feel seen, supported, and successful.

It’s extremely rare—less than 0.01% of the time—that a child is unable to complete testing due to non-cooperation.

Our evaluators are highly experienced and know how to connect with children quickly. In fact, you’d be surprised how often we’re lovingly referred to as their “bestie” by the end of the session!

If a reschedule is ever needed, we’ll handle it calmly, respectfully, and without pressure.

Your child’s comfort and trust always come first.

You’ll receive the full written evaluation report within 2–3 weeks of the testing session.

If additional records or school input are pending, we’ll keep you updated on any changes to the timeline.

Once the report is complete, we’ll schedule a feedback session with the evaluator.

  • This is a private, one-on-one meeting (usually via Zoom or Teams).
  • You’ll receive a copy of the report prior to the meeting so you can follow along and prepare questions.
  • The evaluator will walk through the findings, explain what everything means in plain language, and offer personalized recommendations.

Yes—you decide who receives the report and who we may speak with.

Once your evaluation is complete and reviewed with you, you’ll receive a copy to keep and share as you choose – this includes your child’s school.

If you’d like us to speak directly with teachers, counselors, or special education staff:

  • You must provide written consent using our release of information form.
  • This allows us to communicate with school personnel and, if requested, assist with planning or participating in school-based meetings.
  • If you’d like the school to review the report directly with us, we’re happy to do so once consent is in place.

Without written consent, we will not contact or send information to anyone outside your family.
 You stay in full control of who has access to your child’s evaluation results.

It depends.

An evaluation that identifies a disability is the first step in the process—but not the final decision-maker. The second step happens at the school, during a formal ARD (Admission, Review, and Dismissal) or 504 committee meeting, where eligibility is determined.

Here’s what that means for you:

  • Our role is to provide a clear, comprehensive picture of your child’s strengths, needs, and any disabilities under IDEA, supported by the data.
  • However, eligibility for special education or 504 services is decided by the school, based on both the evaluation findings and how those needs impact your child’s education.

 

Fortunately, we at Insight IQ are VERY familiar with this process—and we’re here to guide you through it.
 We promise: it’s not as scary or complicated as it may seem, even if you’ve heard otherwise.

Our reports are written to be:

  • School-friendly
  • Legally sound
  • Designed to support smooth collaboration with school staff

Absolutely.  

We encourage parents to bring a support person if it helps you feel more comfortable or confident during the review.

Please let us know in advance so we can accommodate you by sharing the invitation link to them!

No problem at all.  

We want you to feel fully informed and supported. If you need follow-up clarification or would like help navigating next steps, please don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re happy to schedule an additional consultation.

Yes! This is a common request.

While not included in the base evaluation package, we do offer:

  • Pre-meeting prep sessions
  • Written talking points and parent input letters
  • Direct consultations with the school team (with your permission)
  • Attendance at school meetings (ARD/IEP or 504)

Please let us know what level of support you require, and we’ll provide you with pricing and options.