Keeping testing fun and flexible

I recently completed the WPPSI-IV with a child for private kindergarten admission. Having abided by strict COVID-related precautions for the past eight months, the child was unaccustomed to separation from their parents, being in a new environment, and following the instructions of an unfamiliar adult. Knowing this, we split what can be a fairly short testing session into two separate dates, with lots of breaks, stickers, and snacks built in. The first session started with some simple play time with familiar toys of their choosing. We then made a checklist of testing tasks, which allowed the child to monitor their own progress and know when breaks were coming up. With parent permission, the child was able to take short play breaks with a tiny, sweet pup brought to the office by our administrative assistant for this very occasion! The child performed beautifully and I felt confident that the report I presented to the parents was reflective of the child’s current abilities. Had this child been asked to plow through the testing on a strict timeline, the results would have been very different. Some simple adjustments allowed the child’s age-appropriate needs to be accommodated. This is the kind of flexibility and fun I love to offer my clients. It makes the experience more enjoyable for all, and also produces the most valid and reliable testing results.