My son is doing work that is far ahead of his classmates, and has been tentatively identified as gifted (they do the "official" test in January, but everyone who knows him seems confident he will do well.) However, I have been told by multiple people that I should get his IQ tested. I'm hesitant, for a number of reasons. First, because when I was in school, my IQ was thrown in my face over and over, as an excuse for the teachers to walk away instead of helping me with something that was difficult for me. Secondly, he is doing very well so far - but what if it is just through hard work and not his IQ? Will that diminish his already vulnerable confidence and ultimately result in him NOT doing as well in school? Or if he does well, will he think he doesn't HAVE to work hard anymore? Third, how accurate are IQ tests anyway? Mine had a high number, but I never felt as "smart" as the score said I was. This could have been the usual teenage self esteem issues, but I have always wondered if I am actually any more intelligent than the average person.
On the other hand, DS8 occasionally does something that makes me think he is more talented than I give him credit for, which makes me wonder if I am doing enough to challenge and advocate for him.
Anyway, I would like to hear everyone's opinions on the pros and cons of IQ testing. Also, if I do get him tested, should I let the school do it, or take him to a child psychologist? I'm sure the school is more than capable, not to mention free. But if I do it privately, the school will not be able to use his scores to do what they did to me as a kid. Any input would be really helpful!
