A helpful way to understand your child’s learning difficulties can be through an Intelligence or Achievement Test. Intelligence testing is much more than just an IQ measure. Using these types of tests gives you extensive information about what areas of cognitive ability your child is struggling with and what areas they may have strength in. Identifying and understanding this information can help structure their learning plan at school to target the areas which they require assistance.
Examples of Intelligence/Achievement Tests Include:
1. The Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children – 5th Edition (WISC-V): for children aged 6 years to 16 years and 11 months. This test measures ability in areas such as verbal comprehension, visual-spatial skills, and fluid reasoning skills, working memory and processing speed.
2. The Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scale of Intelligence – 4th Edition (WPPSI-IV): for children aged 2 years and 6 months to 7 years and 7 months. This test measures ability in the same areas as the WISC-V, but is designed for the younger age group.
3. The Wechsler Individual Achievement Test – 2nd Edition (WIAT-II): for people aged 4 years through to adults. This test measures ability in the following areas: Oral Language, Reading, Written Language and Mathematics.
How Can I Get My Child Assessed?
As a psychologist Leia is qualified to conduct the assessments listed above. The results from the assessment/s are interpreted and formed into an individualised report. The process of Intelligence/Achievement Testing includes:
1. Both parent/s and the child will be required to attend an initial appointment to gather relevant information about the child’s history and decide whether a test is necessary.
2. If it is decided for example, that a WISC-V is necessary for assessment, a 2 hour block is usually required for testing. Depending on the age of the child a quick break may be provided to manage possible fatigue.
3. The results are interpreted and a report is written.
4. Parents will be required to attend a Feedback session to go over the results of the assessment and address any of their questions/concerns.
If you are concerned about your child’s learning and are unsure where to begin, please book an initial appointment with Leia by clicking the booking link or for more information contact Leia via the contact page.
References:
• Lichtenberger, E. O., & Smith, D. R. (2005). Essentials of WIAT-II and KTEA-II Assessment (1st Edition). New Jersey. John Wiley & Sons Inc.
• https://www.pearsonclinical.com.au/
