Understood Explains
Private vs. school-based evaluations for special education
Aug 2, 2022
Dr. Ellen Braaten, an associate professor at Harvard Medical School and expert in psychological testing, joins discussions on the distinctions between private and school evaluations for special education. Discover why families sometimes opt for private testing despite the availability of free school assessments. Learn how to navigate costs and insurance, and gain insights on effectively communicating sensitive topics with children undergoing evaluations. The conversation reveals the essential roles different evaluators play and provides valuable tips for parents in these challenging situations.
28:20
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Quick takeaways
- Private evaluations offer in-depth insights and diagnoses for children's learning needs, contrasting with the eligibility-focused nature of public evaluations.
- Effective communication with children about the evaluation process can help them feel involved and reduce anxiety, fostering a supportive atmosphere.
Deep dives
Understanding Evaluation Types
There are significant differences between private and public school evaluations when it comes to assessing children's learning and thinking differences. Private evaluations often provide a more in-depth understanding of a child's needs and can yield a diagnosis, which is not typically offered in school evaluations. Public evaluations are designed primarily to determine eligibility for services and are usually conducted free of charge, making them more accessible for families. Thus, the importance of knowing what type of evaluation aligns with a child's specific needs cannot be overstated, as each serves different purposes and offers unique advantages.
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