Neuropsychological Assessment
Neuropsychological Assessment: Services for Ages 3–7
Services for Ages 3–7
- Neuropsychological Assessment
- Early Learning & School Readiness
Early years are critical for building executive functions—focus, working memory, flexibility, and self-control. Dr. Hoffman’s evaluations and recommendations prepare children for success in preschool and early elementary years, with clear guidance for teachers, IEPs, and 504 Plans.
- Behavioral & Emotional Support
Behavior tells a story about how a child’s brain is working. Through gentle, practical strategies, Dr. Hoffman helps children develop self-regulation, manage frustration, and strengthen emotional understanding—while helping parents respond calmly and effectively.
- Parent Coaching & Family Guidance
Parents receive clear feedback and simple, real-world strategies they can use at home right away. Dr. Hoffman provides tools to support daily routines, transitions, and confidence-building—turning insight into action for the whole family.
- Intervention Planning & Follow-Up
Dr. Hoffman collaborates with teachers, therapists, and pediatricians to ensure consistent support across settings. Follow-up sessions monitor progress and adjust recommendations as the child grows—helping every child thrive at their own pace.
Referral Overview: Children Ages 3–7
Dr. Loren Hoffman, Ph.D., Pediatric Neuropsychologist — helping families understand how the developing brain affects learning, behavior, and emotions, and turning insight into practical strategies for home and school.
Core Services
- Neuropsychological Assessment — Comprehensive testing of attention, memory, language, executive functions, and early academics to clarify strengths and needs.
- Early Learning & School Readiness — Guidance for preschool/early elementary success, including recommendations for IEPs and 504 Plans.
- Behavioral & Emotional Regulation — Assessment and strategies for self-regulation, frustration tolerance, and social skills.
- Parent Coaching & Family Guidance — Practical, home-based strategies for routines, transitions, and emotional growth.
- Intervention Planning & Collaboration — Coordination with teachers, therapists, and pediatricians for cohesive care and follow-up.
What to Expect
- 1) Parent intake and review of history and concerns
- 2) Child evaluation (play-based, developmentally sensitive)
- 3) Feedback session with clear, practical recommendations
- 4) Written report for families and care teams
- 5) Follow-up support and school collaboration as needed
Referrals & Parent Consultations — Website: www.drhoffmannaples.com Email: info@drhoffmannaples.com
Why Neuropsychologists Focus on Ages 3–7:
Between ages three and seven, the brain is developing at an incredible pace. This is the stage where attention, emotional control, language, and problem-solving are coming online. For children with developmental brain delays, ADHD, or autism, early therapy during this time helps strengthen the very systems that guide learning and self-control
1. The Brain Is Most Malleable Early On Ages 3–7 represent the peak of brain plasticity. This means the brain is most open to learning new skills and building connections that last a lifetime. Neuropsychologists focus here because the earlier we intervene, the greater the long-term impact.
2. When Behavior Is Really Brain At this age, children show their challenges through behavior, not words. A child who can’t sit still, wait their turn, or listen may not be disobedient—they may simply lack the neural wiring for self-control yet. Neuropsychologists look beneath behavior to understand which parts of the brain need support
“What looks like ‘won’t’ is often ‘can’t yet.’”
How Neuropsychologists Help During the Early Years
- These Years Build the Foundation
By age seven, the brain’s foundation for language, emotional regulation, and problem-solving is mostly set. If these systems are delayed, school and social demands can quickly overwhelm a child. Early help strengthens the brain before habits of frustration form.
- Early Help Changes the Trajectory
Children who receive early neuropsychological assessment and therapy show stronger school performance, improved attention, and greater confidence. Intervening early can redirect developmental pathways toward lifelong learning success.
- Parents Are the Key Partner
Therapy works best when parents become active co-therapists—using simple tools like the STARR Technique, Time-In routines, and visual schedules at home. Every repetition at home helps strengthen neural connections that build self-regulation and confidence
- Waiting Makes Change Harder
After age eight, brain plasticity slowly decreases. Patterns of inattention, impulsivity, or frustration can become more ingrained. That’s why neuropsychologists act early—to prevent problems before they become permanent.
- Dr. Hoffman’s Tip
The preschool and early elementary years are when the brain is most ready to learn how to think, not just what to think. Neuropsychologists work during this window to help children build the circuits that guide focus, emotion, and time.
