Why Smart Kids Take Forever: Navigating Slow Processing Speed

What is Processing Speed?

In the simplest terms, processing speed is the rate at which you can take in information, make sense of it, and then respond. It's how quickly you can perform mental tasks, from the moment you receive a stimulus (like a question from a teacher) to the moment you give an answer. This isn't a measure of how intelligent you are, but rather a measure of how efficiently your brain works. A person with slow processing speed can be just as bright as their fast-thinking peers; they simply need more time to process information.

What Slow Processing Speed Looks Like

What processing speed looks like in daily life and school can be described through a variety of observations. The following bullet points detail common signs to help you identify these behaviors in children and teens.

• In the classroom:

  • Takes a long time to copy notes from the board or a book.

  • Struggles to finish tests or quizzes within the allotted time.

  • Appears unmotivated or inattentive but is actually still processing instructions.

  • Has difficulty keeping up with fast-paced classroom discussions.

  • Struggles with mental math or other tasks that require quick thinking.

  • Takes a long time to begin working after receiving instructions.

• In daily life and social situations:

  • Is often the last one to get ready (e.g., putting on shoes, getting a coat).

  • Struggles to follow multi-step directions.

  • Takes a long time to make a decision, even about simple things.

  • Has difficulty keeping up with the rapid back-and-forth of a conversation.

  • May miss social cues because they're still processing what was just said.

  • Can feel frustrated or "behind" their peers in group activities.

Slow Processing Speed is Not a Diagnosis

Processing speed itself is not a formal diagnosis. Instead, it's a cognitive ability measured during a comprehensive psychoeducational evaluation. A child may receive a diagnosis like a specific learning disorder or ADHD, and slow processing speed may be a contributing factor or a related symptom, but it isn't the primary diagnosis. For example, a student with ADHD may have slow processing speed as a symptom of their inattention and executive function difficulties. Similarly, a student with a learning disorder might have slow processing speed when decoding words, which contributes to their reading challenges.

It's not uncommon for people to have a high IQ but a low score in processing speed. Think of intelligence (IQ) as the quality of the computer's programs and hard drive (the information you have and your ability to reason), and processing speed as the speed of the computer's central processor (how fast it can run those programs). A computer can have excellent software and a vast amount of data stored on its hard drive, but if the processor is slow, it will still take a long time to perform tasks.

This is why a child can be "very bright" or have a high IQ but still struggle to complete timed tests, follow multi-step instructions, or take notes quickly in class. Their slower processing speed means they need more time to think and respond, even though their reasoning and problem-solving abilities are excellent. This disconnect between their potential and their performance is often a key indicator that a psychoeducational evaluation is needed to uncover the underlying cognitive profile and provide appropriate support.

Recommendations to Help Your Child

While processing speed is a foundational neurological skill, there are many strategies that can help a child compensate and succeed. Working with a professional through a psychoeducational evaluation can identify specific areas of need and lead to a detailed plan of action.

Accommodations and Supports in School

• Extended Time: This is one of the most effective accommodations. Providing extra time on tests and assignments gives a student the space they need to process information without the pressure of a time constraint.

• Reduced Workload: Shortening assignments or breaking them down into smaller, more manageable chunks can prevent a student from feeling overwhelmed.

• Preferential Seating: Seating a student closer to the teacher can help reduce distractions and ensure they hear all instructions clearly.

• Provide Written Instructions: Giving a student written instructions in addition to verbal ones can help them refer back to the information as they work.

• Technology: Using assistive technology, such as a laptop for note-taking or a word processor for writing, can help them bypass the physical demands of a task and focus on the mental work.

Tips for Home and Daily Life

• Simplify Directions: Give your child one or two instructions at a time instead of a long list. You can also ask them to repeat the instructions to you to ensure they have processed them.

• Build Time into the Routine: When you're getting ready to leave the house or transition to a new activity, allow for extra time. This reduces stress for both you and your child.

• Practice Puzzles and Games: Engaging in activities like Sudoku, crossword puzzles, or certain video games can help strengthen processing speed over time in a fun, low-pressure environment.

• Encourage a Healthy Lifestyle: Ensure your child gets enough sleep, maintains a balanced diet, and exercises regularly. These are all foundational to optimal brain function.

The Role of a Psychoeducational Evaluation

A private psychoeducational evaluation provides a comprehensive assessment of a child's cognitive abilities, including processing speed. A psychologist can use a variety of standardized tests to pinpoint the exact nature of the difficulty. The results of this evaluation are essential for creating a targeted support plan, and they provide the data needed to advocate for your child's needs within the school system.

With the right understanding and support, a child with slow processing speed can achieve great things. The key is to recognize that they aren't lazy or unmotivated; their brain simply works a little differently. By providing them with the right tools and strategies, you can help them navigate the world with confidence and unlock their potential.