Able to Care

How Cognitive Assessments Help Children Thrive: A Guide for Parents, Teachers and Carers

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June 02, 2025 6:00pm

1h 14m

In this powerful season opener, Andy Baker speaks with Dr. Daniel Weisberg to uncover the value of cognitive assessments in understanding and supporting children. Daniel shares real-world insights from his work at CAYP Psychology, a national psychological service supporting children, young people, and families.

This episode is a must-listen for parents, carers, and educators who want to better understand behaviour, unmet needs, and how early assessment can open doors—not just to diagnoses, but to tailored support, greater self-awareness, and better outcomes.

📣 Proudly sponsored by Carers Card UK

  • [03:35] Meet Dr. Daniel Weisberg and CAYP Psychology

  • 06:30 What is a cognitive assessment?

  • 08:45 The 4 pillars of assessment explained

  • 13:00 When assessments are needed (and when they’re not)

  • 15:40 ADHD, masking, and school stress

  • 18:15 Abstract vs concrete thinking & academic challenges

  • 21:00 Understanding emotional dysregulation in children

  • 24:20 How assessments support EHCP applications

  • 27:05 Advice for teachers working with dysregulated pupils

  • 30:00 Coregulation and the myth of “calm down”

  • 32:45 Tools that help: mood thermometers, 5-point scales

  • 35:20 Finding credible professionals & avoiding bad online advice

  • 38:10 Final thoughts: early support vs wait-and-see

  • 40:00 Where to find more from Daniel and CAYP Psychology

  • 🧠 Key Messages:

    ✅ Cognitive assessments are not just about diagnosis—they offer clarity, confidence, and tailored strategies for home and school.
    ✅ Understanding a child’s thinking style helps teachers and parents respond with empathy, not frustration.
    ✅ Early support beats reactive systems. Don’t wait for crisis—seek insight sooner.

    🔗 Useful Links:

    • 🧠 CAYP Psychology – National psychological support for children and young people

    • 🛍️ Carers Card UK – Support, ID, discounts, and wellbeing for carers

    • 📘 Targeting the Positive with Behaviours That ChallengeBuy Andy’s book

    • 🧰 AbleHub.uk – Resources and training for caregivers, educators, and parents

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    Together, we can build a world where children are understood—and those who care for them are supported.