Basics of Child Neuropsychology

Will become the standard go-to text for those seeking a basic understanding of children and adolescents who experience neurologically based challenges. This book provides an easy-to-follow primer on how the brain works, develops, and is affected by different types of damage, as well as how to address such challenges through effective assessment and evidence-based practices. It is a 'must-have' resource for teachers, clinicians, and allied health personnel, and a text that all special education teachers and those preparing to teach should count among their most valuable tools. --Steve Graham, EdD, Regents and Warner Professor, Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College, Arizona State University This book offers an easily accessible, straightforward overview of the rapidly developing field of child neuropsychology, and shows how to use insights from the field in work with children and their families. Clear, insightful and comprehensive, the book interweaves science and practice for a wide range of professionals who may not have in-depth knowledge of biology and neuroscience. It provides the reader a solid framework for understanding the connections between case conceptualization and intervention for children with neurologically based challenges. Hooper is wonderfully skilled at conveying sophisticated concepts in a very relatable manner! I envision this book being used in graduate-level courses in clinical psychology, school psychology, social work, and counseling. --Kevin M. Antshel, PhD, ABPP, Department of Psychology, Syracuse University One cannot imagine a more well qualified author than Stephen Hooper as the author of this quite extraordinary book. His clinical work and highly regarded research have contributed to and informed those in the professions of education, pediatrics, psychiatry, and most certainly child neuropsychology. This book presents a clear and coherent picture of child neuropsychology today--particularly for those with little knowledge of this complex field--and is a singular contribution to those who desire to better understand what we know about brain and behavior in children. --from the Foreword by George W. Hynd, PhD, Distinguished Research Professor Emeritus, University of Georgia Most books that discuss brain development and brain-behavior relationships are intimidating to non-neuropsychologists--this one is not. Hooper succinctly explains how a basic understanding of brain functioning and behavior can enhance knowledge of children's brain-related strengths and weaknesses, improve communication among various child practitioners, and result in more comprehensive treatment approaches. Chapters describe the basic tenets of neuropsychological assessment, the most common childhood disorders and disabilities, and the implementation of educational, behavioral, and medical interventions. Hooper has certainly accomplished his goal of creating a comprehensive text to enhance fundamental knowledge of child neuropsychology. --Nancy Mather, PhD, Professor Emerita of Disability and Psychoeducational Studies, University of Arizona This superb work extends well beyond childhood exceptionalities to address an impressive breadth of topics, including essential elements of history, neuroanatomy, child development, normal versus abnormal brain function, assessment techniques and approaches, and evidence-based interventions. Hooper presents complex information in an especially meaningful manner. The topics are well chosen, thoughtfully sequenced, and treated in appropriate detail, which renders scaffolded content that is easily understood and integrated. Learning is enhanced by the book's masterful combination of advance organizers, questions, reminders, summarizing key points, and additional online and print resources. Truly an outstanding and rewarding read! --Bruce A. Bracken, PhD, School of Education (Emeritus), The College of William and Mary-