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Three Reasons to Test Your Child’s IQ

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Have you ever wondered what your child’s IQ score is?  The Mensa high IQ society entrance requirement is an IQ score of 130 or above which means your child’s IQ is above at least 98 out of 100 same age children.  This is also the IQ score required to enter a gifted class.  Here are three reasons to test your child’s IQ.

First, the IQ score provides information about how your child processes information when presented with new challenges.  An IQ test does not have any reading, math, or written expression on it so it measures your child’s new problem solving ability to process information verbally, logically, quickly, and using memory.  You’ll learn about your child’s processing.

A second reason to test your child’s IQ is to establish a baseline for determining his or her ability. Accidents, illnesses, and head trauma may occur at any time during your child’s life and could significantly affect your child’s daily functioning and future earning potential.  If you test your child’s IQ when young, you have a reference for making future comparisons which could be useful in case of a lawsuit.

Third, understanding your child’s IQ may help you with establishing expectations for your child’s performance.  Perhaps you feel like learning should come easier to your child or that you have to push too hard.  Knowing your child’s IQ can help you understand how to guide your child.

Contact us if you’d like to schedule IQ testing for your child (561) 625-4125.

Does Insurance Cover Testing?

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I am an out-of-network provider so I don’t accept insurance.  However, I do provide you with an invoice that shows procedure codes and a diagnosis (if there is one).   Most of the time the insurance companies say testing is educational and not medical so they don’t cover it.  Some parents don’t want to use insurance even if they have it because they are concerned about a permanent record.  Additionally, I find their services too restrictive and not compatible with most people’s real needs.  Lastly, the amount of paperwork is excessive.

What is the evaluation process like?

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A psychoeducational evaluation is an investment in your child.  It is an evaluation process used to determine your child’s abilities and how he or she learns best.  Standard psychoeducational evaluations typically include a test of intelligence, information process testing, and achievement testing.  My evaluations go beyond basic and also include a measure of self-esteem, testing for dyslexia and, if the child is in middle or high school, often times learning strategies. 

Since I am a school neuropsychologist, I often use neuropsychological measures such as the NEPSY II or Delis- Kaplan Test of Executive Functioning.  The use of these tests depends on what questions parents want me to answer.

My evaluations are based on identifying strengths as well as areas of need.  I make sure the child knows his/her strengths.  This is important because by the time parents bring their child to me, the child may not feel good about school or themselves.  I want to change this perception.

Throughout my evaluations I gather information from parents, teachers, the child, and through my observations while working with him or her.  Once the evaluation process is complete, I meet with parents to discuss the results and recommendations as well as create an action plan of key steps to take.  My recommendations are based on quality, not quantity of recommendations provided.

I also follow up with parents long after the evaluation process to make sure the child is on the right track.

After the evaluation is complete, you’ll know your child’s abilities, academic levels, and how he/she processes information.  You’ll also know how they feel about themselves and school.  You’ll leave with answers to your questions!

Don’t Wait For Your Child To Fail

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As a parent, are you thinking, “I hope things go better for my child in school this year?”  Do you anticipate a negative daily call from the school about your child’s behavior or effort?  Your child’s issues from last year may not have surfaced yet but could be bubbling.  My advise to you is don’t take a wait and see approach.  Time is too valuable and the school year will be over before we know it.  Historically, school districts move slow when supporting kids that struggle. 

Be proactive.  If you know your child may have learning or behavioral issues at school, contact me.  The results of my evaluation will identify strengths and weaknesses.  It is accepted by all schools.  This documentation will speed up the help your child receives in school.  Without written documentation, your child’s school won’t make any accommodations.  These are things like not counting off for messy handwriting, a reduced list of spelling words, use of a word processor, copies of notes, not missing recess, and extra time on tests and assignments.  In order to receive extra time on the SAT or ACT, your child must currently have this accommodation in place at school. 

A proactive investment in your child’s future will save you from wasting your money on hit and miss search for answers.  Your child’s school will give extra help and support if you have the proper documentation.  Answers await you.  Don’t wait for your child to fail before getting help.  Your child will thank you.