1. What is an IQ test?
2. Why does my child need an IQ assessment?
3. What are IQ scores?
4. Can IQ scores change?
5. How can I prepare my child for an IQ Test?
6. What tests will the psychologist be using to assess my child?
1. What is an IQ test?
IQ tests can come in many forms.
A typical IQ test requires your child to solve some problems in a given time under supervision. In the IQ test, there are many mini tests. Some require your child to respond to the questions verbally while others require your child to make patterns with coloured blocks and to look at some pictures. Some of these mini tests are timed, so your child will need to do as many questions in the mini test as he or she can within a time limit. The whole test takes about 2 hours to administer depending on the age of your child.
Back to top
2. Why does my child need an IQ assessment?
The doctor will usually refer your child for an assessment if:
- Your child has difficulty coping with his or her current school demands.
- There is a concern whether your child is ready for Primary 1 in a mainstream school.
- Your child may benefit more from a special education service rather than mainstream education.
- Your child has any existing medical condition or is on any medication that may affect his or her learning or thinking ability.
Please note that we do not administer IQ assessments for giftedness.
Back to top
3. What are IQ scores?
An IQ score is a measure of intelligence, which usually reflects reasoning ability.
Scores from tests are estimates based on test performance on a particular day. There is always a margin of error and this is factored into the reported scores. It is also important to note that the score will not change greatly from day to day. Nonetheless, children's cognitive abilities may change substantially over the course of early childhood with increased exposure and intervention. It is therefore important to view the child's IQ scores as a snapshot of child's current development.
IQ is a good predictor of academic functioning. However, it is not necessarily the best predictor of success. IQ tests do not measure creativity, leadership, initiative, artistic talent, or physical prowess – all components which can be defined as intelligence. For example, a talented piano player or a gifted athlete may score low on a standard IQ test, even though they may have a high ability in their area of expertise. IQ scores should always be part of a comprehensive evaluation which contributes to understanding of a child's current strengths and needs.
Back to top
4. Can IQ scores change?
IQ is usually stable over time and unless there are unusual circumstances, re-testing of IQ within 2 years is not recommended. Testing of children before 4 years old is also unlikely to be accurate because their behaviour is too unpredictable. Therefore, IQ tests are administered to children above 5 years in our CDU.
Back to top
5. How can I prepare my child for an IQ Test?
You cannot teach your child how to answer the IQ questions although there are some steps you can take to make it a successful and enjoyable session for your child.
- Try to schedule the IQ test when your child is at his or her best. If your child needs to take an afternoon nap, then do not schedule the session in the afternoon.
- Explain to your child in simple terms that he or she will be taking a test that needs him or her to really concentrate. Do not overly emphasise the importance of this test as this may create a level of anxiety in your child that will inhibit his or her performance.
- Allow your child to have plenty of rest the night before as well as a good breakfast on the day of the test. Depending on the age of your child and the IQ test chosen, he or she may be tested for several hours.
Back to top
6. What tests will the psychologist be using to assess my child?
The Wechsler tests are the most common individually administered IQ tests.
Sometimes, the psychologist will also ask you some questions about your child's behaviour (in terms of communication, daily living, social skills, etc.) by using standardised tests such as the Vineland Adaptive Behaviour Scales – Third Edition.
There are many tests available but we have selected those which are commonly used and acknowledged by other professionals.
Back to top