How do I prepare my child for an assessment without coaching them?

The short answer

Tell your child why the appointment is happening, who they may meet, what activities or questions may occur, how long it may take and what remains unknown. Say that the team is trying to understand how things work for them, not testing whether they are good, naughty or clever. Ask the service about communication, sensory, mobility and break arrangements, then show your child the plan in a form they can use. Practise practical skills only, such as reaching the building or asking for a pause. Do not teach diagnostic phrases, rehearse stories or tell them which answers lead to a diagnosis. Let them say 'I don't know', correct adults and communicate in their preferred way.

• Give honest information about purpose, people, place, sequence and uncertainty.
• Ask the service for access arrangements before the appointment.
• Practise logistics and help-seeking, not diagnostic answers.
• Tell the child there is no required performance or result.
• Plan recovery and a way to record questions afterwards.