Gifted Testing: Identifying When a Child is Gifted
Have you been wondering if your child is gifted? Parents who believe their child may be gifted might have quite a few questions about gifted testing, the benefits of identifying whether or not their child is gifted, and when you should have your child tested for giftedness. As a parent learns more about the testing process, they will have to face a decision on whether or not the psychoeducational test is suitable for their child.
What is Gifted Testing?
Gifted testing is a form of psychological and educational assessment that determines whether or not a child is gifted. Gifted testing uses different ability and achievement tests that give the test administrators a score they can compare to other scores. Those who achieve higher scores on their tests are classified as gifted. While it is recommended that various tests be done to determine a child’s giftedness, gifted testing is an effective tool one can use to determine giftedness.
What is an Achievement Test?
An achievement test assesses the information the child has already learned. These tests can vary significantly, ranging from focusing on specific subjects like math or science to standardized tests like the SAT.
What is an Ability Test?
An ability test is used to determine information like a child’s intelligence quotient (IQ) or cognitive abilities. However, these tests alone cannot be used to determine gifted skills in subjects like creativity and leadership.
What are the Benefits of Gifted Testing?
There are many great benefits to gifted testing that a parent of a gifted child may wish to consider. Gifted testing allows parents and educators to develop a deeper understanding of a child’s personal educational and psychological needs. The earlier a child’s gifted abilities are found, the more time the child has to develop their gifted abilities, allowing them a greater chance to thrive.
Finding that one’s child is gifted grants them an opportunity to be placed in a gifted program, which is designed to focus on developing a child’s cognitive abilities and learning to strengthen their weaknesses. Because gifted programs are focused on helping children develop their strong points and strengthen their weak points, a child in a gifted program may have a better chance of identifying any learning disabilities than if they were not in a gifted program- allowing them to receive the interventions they need.
Should I Test My Kid for Giftedness?
The National Association for Gifted Children states that children younger than six may be more challenging to make accurate IQ assessments. Therefore, a child older than six may benefit the most from traditional gifted testing. If you believe your child may be gifted, they may benefit from gifted testing- as long as they have already reached their sixth birthday.
In Conclusion
Having your child tested for giftedness by a professional like one of our child psychologists can benefit them greatly. This form of psychological testing may be just what your child needs to receive the education they deserve, granting them a chance to develop their strengths further and strengthen their weakness.
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