Gifted Issues Discussion homepage Forums Identification, Testing & Assessment Testing 101

I find that many programs have different test that they prefer. The RIAS is a certified test and has been standardized, so it is reliable. Every IQ test is different and scores will vary from test to test, some test seem to work better for verbal and others may do better for spacial.
If you are trying to get into a special program I would see if you can submit some work samples, videos of your child, and achievement test results in additon to the RIAS. Achievement testing is usually less expensive and many schoools perform them free. Some gifted programs are pretty strict but others are open to alternatives. My school also uses RIAS and I think it is pretty accurate test. It is better for younger kids because it has a shorter test length so kids don't burn out. Good Luck and Congrats! Those are great scores.

Thanks for the information. Which achievement tests should I check into taking? He took the 1st grade SAT 10 this year with the rest of the first graders. He takes STAR reading and math in class. The district only gives the Woodcock Johnson to the "low" IEP kids, so this is not an option. (Unless I pay to have it done privately.)

Perhaps the testing isn't even necessary. What I am really looking for is someone knowledgeable and experienced to discuss how to best serve my son's needs. I realize that with an IQ this high, his needs may likely need to be met differently than for moderately gifted students. What I'd love to discuss is how to determine for my child HOW MUCH IS TOO MUCH?, HOW MUCH IS NOT ENOUGH? and HOW CAN I HELP WITH HIS JOURNEY WITHOUT BURNING HIM OUT? Live people (outside of school)to assist with advocacy-to discuss frustrations and milestones and enrichment with someone who will not judge you. I am so glad I have my forums, but a live person/people with experience in the field would be so nice to talk to.

Should I consider paying to get tests done to apply for Young Scholars? I have so many questions. How intensive are the tests for a six year old? How much time would it take? Would this program help me? How difficult is it to qualify? How much would it cost for the testing required? How would I choose a psychologist to administer them? Are there other such advocacy programs I might consider?

There are NO gifted groups or special programs near where I live. I checked with FLAG. NAGC said to talk to FLAG. MENSA has no programs locally for young students and/or their parents.

I hope to attend the SENG conference this year in Orlando, but I'm not sure I can get the funds together in time. I hope it can be worked out. :-)(There is no local chapter.)

I've checked various websites and have gotten some really good ideas on some forums I visit, but it would be nice to have actual people to talk to about this stuff.

Anyone have any thoughts?

My first advice is for you to relax. The MOST important thing a gifted youngster needs to succeed is a loving supportive home. I have also recently found out my DD was gifted and was nervous and anxious as well. One day my kid was normal and the next she was highly gifted.
No one knows your child like you! There is no one size fits all when it comes to gifted children so trust yourself above everyone else.
The first questions to ask is what sort of gifted program does your school offer? Does it seem like the sort of program your DS would benefit from? Is he happy in class or bored? Is he performing math and reading around grade level or is he grades ahead? Some highly gifted kids need lots of acceleration and stimulation and others, like my DD, are content with slowly analizing a concept and questioning the teacher like crazy? So far, my DD functions well in both her regular & gifted classes, but I am prepared if this changes.
My advice on the young scholars would be to wait a bit. It is a great program and yes IQ testing can be expensive. I think you should get your son settled into the gifted program at school. Once you have a better picture of what your sons needs are you can apply to YS and ask for help in the areas you think your school is falling short. It will help to add some school refrences in the YS application.
Do you have a gifted councelor or psycologist at your school? They are the best first resource to consult. I have learned alot from speaking with the councelors at my school. And this blog is an amazing support place.
Please keep us posted ...lots & hugs coming your way!

Check out this blog when you get time!
http://www.parentinggiftedkids.com/2009/05/gifted-kids-in-regular-classroom-part-3.html

Thanks for the link!

I've actually done quite a bit of reading on the subject of gifted children and gifted education. His situation is good. DS is happy and gets good grades (so far all A's). Been in the GT program for a year already. :-)

I'll say that the school does not see certain interventions as I do and leave it there, but overall we are generally happy with the school. I've decided to try to do more at home to make up for the school's shortfalls. I'm always trying to find ways to improve my efforts in this area as DS6 is a VSL.

The bottom line is I've found there is no clear, obvious solution or path for anything gifted, and to this point have taken one decision at a time. So far, this strategy has served me well. I do have ideas and thoughts I'd like to discuss one on one with an experienced person who can offer advice. The school psychologist is shared among several schools and refers queries to the school gifted resource teacher. She is very sweet and seems to do a good job with the kids but is a first year teacher and lacks the experience I hope to draw upon. I guess I feel like I have no experienced "live" person to talk to.

I must say that I am really glad I joined this forum. There are such great discussions and links-and it's only my second day here! Thank you so much for your comments! I appreciate your responses. :-)