IQ Testing

Cognitive assessment (IQ test) 

 

There are plenty of IQ tests floating around the internet - you’ve probably even tried one or two - but a true IQ test is used by educational psychologists to hone in on a child’s cognitive strengths and weaknesses. 

 

Also called cognitive assessments, IQ tests give us insight into why your child might have ongoing academic challenges. The results of a cognitive assessment can help you and your child’s teachers support them and ensure their learning needs are met.

 

What is an IQ test?

 

An IQ test is a standardised test measuring your child’s cognitive and intellectual abilities compared to their peers. The results can identify everything from learning disabilities to intellectual giftedness.

 

If you have any concerns about your child’s cognitive abilities, an IQ test can help. And once you know where your child sits on the test’s scoring system, you can better understand what resources or further testing might best support their learning.

 

Our cognitive assessment types and tools

 

Our educational psychologist uses the Wechsler series of IQ tests. These are highly regarded tests, widely viewed as the gold standard of cognitive assessments. Generally, IQ tests are also done along with Achievement Tests to offer more insights.

 

WISC®-V | Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children® Fifth Edition

 

Age: 7-17

 

This test measures children’s intellectual ability using the five cognitive domains that impact performance: verbal comprehension, visual-spatial, fluid reasoning, working memory, and processing speed.

 

WAIS-IV | Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale | Fourth Edition / Fifth Edition

 

Age: 17-90

 

This test assesses an adult's cognitive abilities and examines the relationship between their intellectual functions and their memory. It is often used to support adults with future educational planning.

 

WPPSI-IV | Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scale of Intelligence – Fourth Edition

 

Age: 4-6

 

Designed for younger children, this series of sub-tests evaluates a child’s intellectual performance and cognitive functioning using age-appropriate methods.
 

WJ IV | Woodcock-Johnson IV Cognitive Battery - Australasian Adaptation

 

Age: 2-90

 

An intelligence test that can be used for a broad range of ages from young children to elderly individuals. When used with WJ IV Tests of Achievement and WJ IV Tests of Oral Language, it can help diagnose learning capabilities and difficulties.

 

 

I have my child’s IQ test results – now what?

 

If your child scores above or below average, you might feel like you have more questions than answers. Rest assured, knowing your child’s IQ test score is an excellent starting point for supporting your child. Here are some common results and next steps following a cognitive assessment:

 

Intellectual giftedness – knowing your child scored in the top classification of the IQ test can help you and your child’s teachers work together to offer the most suitable learning environment.

 

Low average or borderline results – if your child scored on the lower average end of the scale, further investigation can help you understand their individual needs. A child psychiatrist or psychologist can discuss your child’s learning style and potential developmental delays, as well as effective interventions.

 

Average results – if you are surprised to learn your child’s IQ test score was average, there could be another reason for their academic challenges. Working with a child psychiatrist or psychologist can help uncover non-cognitive problems that may be at play.

 

Intellectual disability – once you are aware of an intellectual disability, you can start to support your child’s specialised needs and may help access NDIS funding.

 

Dolphin Tribe can help

 

Do you have concerns about your child’s cognitive abilities? Our educational and developmental psychologists are here to help. Request an appointment for a cognitive assessment at our Sydney, NSW clinic.

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