Back-to-school brings fresh possibilities—new teachers, routines, friends, and opportunities to grow. For some children, the transition is smooth. For others, even subtle changes can reveal challenges in learning, attention, or managing emotions. Sometimes those challenges are obvious. Other times, they show up in quieter ways—like slipping grades, changes in mood, or growing frustration with homework.

“I often hear from parents asking, ‘Is this normal?’” says Dr. Katherine Baum, a Main Line licensed psychologist and board-certified clinical neuropsychologist. “The first three weeks of school can bring jitters. But if you see ongoing changes in mood, behavior, or ability to cope—it’s worth asking what else might be going on.”

Small struggles can become bigger obstacles if left unaddressed. A child who sailed through earlier grades may suddenly hit a wall when ‘learning to read becomes reading to learn’ in third grade, or when middle or high school requires more independence and executive functioning skills. “Our brains can compensate for subtle challenges for a while,” Dr. Baum explains, “but when demands rise, those difficulties may surface.”

Comprehensive Neuropsychological Evaluations and ADHD Testing

When concerns arise, guessing the cause wastes precious time. That’s where Dr. Baum and her team’s work becomes life-changing. At Comprehensive Neuropsychology Services, PLLC in Bryn Mawr, they get to the root of the problem so families can take confident, informed steps forward. What truly sets them apart is their commitment to involving the child or teen throughout the process — educating them about the brain, helping them understand their unique strengths and challenges, and doing so in fun, approachable ways such as through personalized letters and storybooks.

Their evaluations and interventions are designed to remove the mystery around learning, behavior, and mood challenges—providing answers and a clear plan. This includes:

• Neuropsychological Evaluations to understand how your child’s brain is working and where targeted support can help
• ADHD Evaluations to determine whether attention challenges are at play and how best to manage them
• Evaluations for Academic Accommodations to secure supports like extended time, quiet testing spaces, and other school or college adjustments
• Executive Functioning Intervention to build organization, planning, and follow-through skills
• Giftedness & Admissions Evaluations to help a new school understand a child or program for them in ways that recognize and foster exceptional strengths
• Individual Therapy for Children, Teens, and Adults to address anxiety, depression, stress, and life transitions, especially in those with neurodevelopmental differences

Every recommendation is tailored to your child’s (or your own) unique profile and your family’s goals and values, giving you a clear roadmap you can act on immediately—at home, at school, and beyond.

How Parents Can Support Their Child’s School Transition

Parents can help by creating open communication at home. Ask your child to share one positive and one challenging part of their day, and validate their feelings rather than minimizing them. Keep notes during the first weeks of school—patterns can help professionals, and early action can make a big difference.

“Parents know their child best and are their best advocates,” Dr. Baum says. “If your gut tells you something’s not right, trust it.” Getting the right evaluation and having open communication with the school can transform your child’s school experience—and your peace of mind.

Find even more back to school tips and support in our Back to School Guide.