As a parent, you want the best for your child — but sometimes it’s hard to know whether a learning difficulty is just a phase or something that needs professional attention. Many children struggle silently in the classroom, developing anxiety and low self-esteem before anyone identifies the underlying issue.
At Neurospa Psychology in Adelaide, we see families every week who wish they’d sought an assessment sooner. Here are the 7 red flags that suggest your child may benefit from a psychoeducational assessment.
1. They’re Working Twice as Hard for Half the Results
Does your child spend hours on homework that should take 20 minutes? Do they study hard for tests but still get poor marks? When effort doesn’t match outcomes, it often points to an underlying learning difficulty such as dyslexia, dyscalculia, or a processing speed issue. A learning assessment can identify exactly where the disconnect is happening.
2. They Avoid Reading or Writing Whenever Possible
Children who struggle with literacy often develop avoidance behaviours. They might say they “hate reading,” refuse to do written homework, or act out during literacy-based activities. This isn’t laziness — it’s a coping mechanism. If your child is bright and capable in conversation but shuts down when asked to read or write, a learning assessment can determine whether dyslexia or another specific learning difficulty is the cause.
3. Their Teacher Has Raised Concerns
Teachers see hundreds of children at the same developmental stage. When a teacher suggests your child might benefit from an assessment, take it seriously. Common concerns include difficulty following multi-step instructions, trouble staying on task, falling behind peers in reading or maths, or inconsistent performance across subjects. A formal assessment gives teachers the evidence they need to provide appropriate support through an Individual Education Plan (IEP).
4. They’re Experiencing Anxiety or Low Self-Esteem About School
Undiagnosed learning difficulties are one of the most common causes of school-related anxiety in children. Watch for signs like stomach aches on school mornings, tearfulness about homework, statements like “I’m dumb” or “everyone else gets it except me,” and social withdrawal from peers. When a child understands why they’re struggling — and that it’s not their fault — the emotional relief is often immediate.
5. There’s a Big Gap Between Their Verbal Ability and Written Work
One of the clearest indicators of a specific learning difficulty is a significant discrepancy between what a child can express verbally and what they produce on paper. If your child tells brilliant stories but can barely write a sentence, or understands maths concepts when explained aloud but can’t solve written problems, this gap warrants investigation through a comprehensive cognitive assessment.
6. They’ve Been Diagnosed with ADHD but Are Still Struggling Academically
ADHD and specific learning difficulties frequently co-occur. Research shows that approximately 30-50% of children with ADHD also have a learning disability. If your child has an ADHD diagnosis and is receiving treatment but still struggling academically, it’s worth investigating whether an additional learning difficulty is contributing to their challenges.
7. They’re “Gifted” but Underperforming
Twice-exceptional (2e) children are both gifted and have a learning difficulty. These children are often the hardest to identify because their high intelligence masks their disability, and their disability masks their giftedness. The result is a child who appears “average” but is actually working incredibly hard to compensate. If your child shows signs of high ability in some areas but unexplained weakness in others, a full IQ assessment combined with achievement testing can reveal the full picture.
What Happens During a Learning Assessment?
A psychoeducational assessment at Neurospa Psychology typically involves standardised cognitive testing (IQ), academic achievement testing (reading, writing, maths), and assessment of processing skills (memory, processing speed, attention). The entire process takes 4-6 hours spread across 1-2 sessions, and you’ll receive a comprehensive written report with specific recommendations for home and school.
When Should You Get an Assessment?
There’s no “too early” when it comes to identifying learning difficulties. Children as young as 5-6 can be assessed, and early identification leads to better outcomes. However, assessments are valuable at any age — we regularly assess teenagers and adults who have struggled their entire lives without understanding why.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a learning assessment cost in Adelaide?
A comprehensive psychoeducational assessment at Neurospa Psychology costs between $1,500 and $2,500 depending on the complexity. This includes all testing sessions, scoring, a detailed written report, and a feedback session. NDIS funding can cover the cost for eligible participants.
Do I need a referral for a learning assessment?
No referral is needed. You can book directly with Neurospa Psychology. However, if your child has an NDIS plan or you’d like a Medicare rebate for associated therapy sessions, a GP referral may be helpful.
How long does it take to get results?
You’ll typically receive your comprehensive written report within 2-3 weeks of the final testing session. A feedback session is included to walk you through the findings and recommendations.
Will a learning assessment help my child at school?
Absolutely. The assessment report provides specific, evidence-based recommendations that schools can use to develop an Individual Education Plan (IEP). It also qualifies your child for accommodations such as extra time in exams, use of assistive technology, or modified curriculum.
Book a Learning Assessment in Adelaide
If you’ve recognised any of these red flags in your child, don’t wait. Early identification and intervention make a significant difference in academic outcomes and emotional wellbeing. Neurospa Psychology in Adelaide has no waitlist for learning assessments. Call us on (08) 7226 2582 or book online to discuss your child’s needs.
Related: Learn more about our children’s assessments — available with no waitlist at Neurospa Psychology Adelaide.