A high score can be a great source of pride for parents, but IQ tests are also a helpful tool for evaluating the sources of a child's academic or behavioral problems in school. For example, if a child has low grades but a high IQ, it may suggest a learning disability. If a child acts out in school or doesn't pay attention in class, a high IQ might suggest boredom as the cause (as opposed to a personal/emotional issue).

What Is IQ?

A child's intelligence quotient (IQ) is a statistical measurement of his performance on a standardized test compared to the performances of all the other children of the same age who have taken it. In statistics, the IQ system follows a model known as "Normal Distribution" - the distribution of one's score around the "norm" or average score. For example, a score of 100 is the "average," meaning that the child's score was higher than that of exactly 50 percent of all test takers. Meanwhile, a score of 115 is higher than 84 percent of all test takers, while a score of 85 is higher than only 16 percent of all test takers.

The Testing Process

Although they are standardized, IQ tests are most accurate when administered by a trained psychologist or psychiatrist. Sometimes a test's language may be unclear; this may cause a child to incorrectly answer a question he would have otherwise gotten right. It's best not to use tests bought or downloaded from the Internet. Several tests (WPPSI-R, K-ABC, Stanford Binet L-M & Stanford Binet Fourth Edition) are designed for children as young as toddlers. At this age, however, many children are still very uncomfortable around strangers (i.e. the psychologist) and may not answer questions out of shyness or separation anxiety. Generally, it is a good idea to have kids tested between the ages of 4 and 8. Start by asking your child's school counselor (often a psychologist) about testing options. In some cases, the school might even administer the test or cover the costs. The counselor will usually be able to refer you to a psychologist who specializes in IQ testing. Otherwise, consult your child's pediatrician, who will have a network of contacts within the testing community.

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IQ Testing For Children