Gifted Issues Discussion homepage Forums Parenting and Advocacy IQ test at 7:30AM

Is it appropriate to administer an IQ test to a 4th grader at approximately 7:30AM during the last week of school?
Our Son arrived at school, walked into class and was promptly told to report to the front office. At that point he was taken into another room and given the IQ test. He had no prior knowledge the test was going to be given that morning.

I would welcome it at any time. It goes to the idea that it is a type of a brain (for lack of a better phrase) and it does not matter when and where that child and later that adult has that brain at all times.

I think it is odd he wasn't forewarned, as he may be a nervous tester, but first thing in the morning is a lot better than the afternoon IMO. Did you request the test, or has school suddenly realised they need something sorted for next year? I would prob call the school to have a chat about their thinking on this and just make sure you are happy with their reasoning.

This is inappropriate. He should at least be given the chance to "prepare" by being well rested, well fed, comfortable, etc., and to not have to feel ambushed.

Maybe if they are testing for MPQ (morning person quotient).

Yep sorry, was thinking of my own kids here

Ds7 could test at 7.30 am, ds5 would prefer 7 pm. I think both would like to know in advance.

My experience is that most kids are fine being tested without warning. Some are actually better that way, and a small minority need forewarning. I've had parents tell me not to warn their child, because they would be up all night worrying about it if I did.

And first thing in the morning is much better than in the afternoon, for the majority of kids. It also has the advantage that you don't have to be ostentatiously pulled from your classroom in front of everyone.

The reaction of the child partly depends on the school culture; if kids are often being pulled out for this and that, it doesn't feel as strange.

Now if -you- didn't know that an IQ test was going to be administered at all, then that would be inappropriate, as parental consent is required.

First thing in the morning would be a disaster for my night owl. I know I'm supposedly in the majority in being more on top of things in the morning, but my DH and DD are both less diurnal than myself.

First thing in the morning also does not fly for anyone who takes a stimulant ADHD med, which may take up to an hour to kick in.

On the whole, I'd want to be made aware of the testing schedule, especially if it's high stakes.