In this illuminating episode, host Andy McLean sits down with Dr Renee Testa, a distinguished paediatric neuropsychologist from Melbourne, Australia. Together, they explore the world of childhood brain development, neurodiversity, and holistic care.
Along the way, they discuss some of the moments of challenge, breakthrough and joy that Renee has experienced working with children facing neurodevelopmental challenges—including conditions such as autism, ADHD, learning disabilities, and developmental language disorders.
Whether you're a parent seeking guidance, an educator looking to better support neurodiverse learners, or a professional in the field of child development, this episode is filled with wisdom, empathy, and practical insights.
Renee emphasises the importance of taking a child-centred approach to neuropsychology. Diagnoses are just one important piece of the puzzle, she says. “It’s also about understanding each child’s unique needs and their own perspective,” she explains, highlighting the value of comprehensive assessments (e.g. cognitive potential, academic achievement) combined with considering a child’s social, emotional, and environmental circumstances.
Renee recalls one powerful story of a child who had been mislabelled by others as “unassessable” due to oral motor difficulties. With patience and trust, Renee uncovered the child's high cognitive potential, revealing that the true challenge was communication, not intelligence.
Informed by decades of experience, Renee shares her advice for those pondering a career in paediatric neuropsychology, and some practical tips for professionals who are new to using standardised assessments.
For families and educators, Renee’s story offers a message of hope: understanding a child’s unique cognitive and emotional profile can transform how they are supported, leading to stronger relationships and happier lives. She shares how helping families reframe behaviours often misinterpreted as laziness or defiance can open the door to meaningful interventions and a renewed sense of connection.
Running order:- 0:03:30 - Renee explains her approach to working with children with neurodevelopmental disorders
- 0:06:20 - Why Renee chose to work in paediatric neuropsychology
- 0:09:00 - How Renee uses standardised assessments to gauge children’s progress and potential
- 0:10:15 - One breakthrough moment Renee had with a child who was previously deemed “unassessable”
- 0:14:00 - How Renee gets children to engage with assessments
- 0:18:41 - Seeing the world from each child’s perspective
- 0:21:00 - Advice for aspiring paediatric neuropsychologist
- 0:22:30 - Career pinnacles that Renee will always remember
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To find out more about the Pearson resources that Renee and her colleagues use at the Can Group–from the
Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children and...
