I offer evaluations, family guidance sessions, and collaborative support through the Rooted Within framework. This approach grew from my work in schools, my experience as a parent, and years of learning from diverse philosophies on childhood and development. It reflects a whole-child process, looking beyond test scores to consider growth potential, strengths, and the emotional and developmental foundations that shape learning. Grounded in understanding, connection, and practical tools, it equips your family to move forward with confidence.
MY APPROACH
WORK WITH ME
Educational Evaluations and Parent Guidance | Amanda Handleson, LEP | Santa Barbara
Educational Evaluations & Parent Guidance
in Santa Barbara
the benefits of our work
We look beyond numbers to understand how your child thinks, learns, and relates. You’ll see the full picture of their strengths and challenges.
More than a score
Understand the Whole Child
School structures, family rhythms, and expectations all shape a child’s growth. We consider these influences so you understand not just what is happening, but why.
learning in context
See the Bigger Picture
Our evaluations translate insight into clear strategies you can use right away: at home, in the classroom, and in everyday family life.
Practical, everyday tools
Get Strategies That Work
You’ll leave with a clear understanding of your child and practical tools that help you feel confident in supporting their growth — now and in the future.
Clarity you can carry forward
Move Forward With Ease
educational evaluations
Comprehensive educational evaluations for families seeking to understand their child’s learning profile, cognitive abilities, processing skills, and attention challenges. Each evaluation reflects a whole-child process, considering growth potential, strengths, and underlying foundations, and offers direction and tailored recommendations that support both the child and the family.
whole child educational evaluations
parent
guidance
Personalized sessions designed to address everyday challenges and bring more ease to family life. Together, we explore your child’s needs, your family rhythms, and the areas where you feel stuck. You’ll leave with practical strategies, developmental insight, and tools that align with your values and support the whole child. Guidance sessions are primarily for parents, and I also offer individual support for high school students who may benefit from strategies, tools, and confidence-building.
practical tools, parent guidance, clarity
collective work
My practice partners with like-minded professionals to offer specialized services that expand the scope of care. At present, this includes a giftedness assessment that integrates both qualitative and quantitative measures. As our collaborative network grows, families will have access to additional resources that reflect a whole-child perspective and complement our evaluations and guidance. Professionals interested in collaborating are welcome to reach out.
collaborative Work with like-minded Professionals
Giftedness Evaluations & Collaborative Care in Santa Barbara
Specialized giftedness assessments through partnerships with like-minded professionals giftedness assessments through partnerships with like-minded professionals Evaluations & Collaborative Care in Santa Barbara
Through the Rooted Within framework, I walk alongside families with insight, practical tools, and compassion. This work grew from a vision of supporting families in a whole-child way that honors children’s development, parents’ intuition, and the rhythms of home life. If you’re ready to take the next step, you can schedule an educational evaluation, book a parent guidance session, or explore my story to learn more about the values that guide this work.
guidance and insight rooted in connection and understanding