Cognitive Assessments for Children
Cognitive Assessments with Dr Rigby
At Base Minds, we provide comprehensive cognitive assessments to support applications and reviews for Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs). Dr Rigby uses standardised tools to assess a child’s cognitive strengths and areas of need, helping to build a clear profile of how they learn and process information.
Whether your child is experiencing difficulties with memory, attention, problem-solving, or learning pace, our cognitive assessments are tailored to provide the insight needed to inform meaningful recommendations and educational provision. The results can play a critical role in securing appropriate support in school and guiding strategies for improved outcomes.
What does it look like?
1. Initial Consultation
We begin with a consultation (usually with parents or caregivers) to gather relevant background information. This includes developmental history, educational concerns, and any existing reports or diagnoses. This helps us tailor the assessment to your child’s specific needs.
2. Standardised Cognitive Testing
We use gold-standard, evidence-based tools such as the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC-V) or similar, depending on the child’s age and needs. These tools assess:
Verbal Comprehension: Understanding, reasoning, and using spoken language.
Visual-Spatial Skills: The ability to visualise and manipulate objects.
Fluid Reasoning: Problem-solving and abstract thinking.
Working Memory: Holding and manipulating information in the mind.
Processing Speed: How quickly simple tasks can be performed under timed conditions.
These domains help to identify specific learning strengths and difficulties, including profiles commonly seen in conditions such as ADHD, autism, dyslexia, or general learning difficulties.
3. Educational and Functional Impact Analysis
We evaluate how the cognitive profile impacts the child’s functioning in the classroom and everyday life, including attention, task initiation, organisation, and ability to follow instructions.
4. Detailed Written Report
Following the assessment, you’ll receive a comprehensive report outlining:
Cognitive strengths and difficulties
Interpretation of results
Implications for learning
Recommendations for EHCP content (provision and outcomes)
Suggested classroom strategies and support
5. Feedback Session
We offer a follow-up meeting to discuss the findings in detail, answer any questions, and explain how to use the report in the EHCP process or educational planning.