If you’re exploring whether your child qualifies for a gifted program, you may be wondering what gifted testing involves and how the process works. At Hammond Psychology & Associates in Brandon, Florida, we specialize in private gifted testing and gifted evaluations to help families understand their child’s cognitive strengths and potential.
This guide explains what to expect during a gifted assessment, what’s included (and what isn’t), and how you can get started.
What Is Gifted Testing?
Gifted testing is a formal assessment designed to measure a child’s intellectual abilities, typically using an IQ test. The results, along with other school documentation, help determine if a child qualifies for a gifted program in their school or district.
Many school districts in Florida — including Hillsborough County — require a specific IQ score to determine eligibility for gifted education services. Our team uses standardized, widely accepted assessments to help meet these requirements. To learn more about the Hillsborough County Public Schools Gifted Student Education, check out the “Gifted Fast Facts” from Hillsborough County Public School district.
⭐ Important: Gifted testing focuses solely on measuring cognitive ability. It does not assess for learning disabilities, ADHD, or mental health concerns.
What Does the Gifted Assessment Process Include?
At Hammond Psychology & Associates, our gifted child testing process is simple and designed to give you clear answers:
✅ Step 1: Cognitive (IQ) Testing
The first step is administering a standardized IQ test such as the:
- Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC-V)
- Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scales
These tests evaluate:
- Verbal comprehension
- Visual-spatial reasoning
- Working memory
- Processing speed
- Fluid reasoning
⏱️ How long does gifted testing take?
The IQ test typically takes 1 to 1.5 hours to administer in a one-on-one setting with our licensed psychologist.
✅ Step 2: Comprehensive Report and 30-Minute Feedback Session
After testing, we prepare a detailed written report summarizing your child’s results. You’ll then return for a 30-minute feedback session where we:
- Review the IQ test scores
- Explain the results in plain language
- Answer any questions
- Discuss potential next steps for school gifted program applications
What Gifted Testing Does NOT Include
Many parents ask if gifted evaluations check for other issues. It’s important to note that this process only measures cognitive ability for gifted placement.
Our gifted testing does not:
- Diagnose ADHD
- Identify learning disabilities
- Screen for mental health conditions
If you have concerns in these areas, a separate psychological evaluation is recommended.
Is Gifted Testing Covered by Insurance?
No. Health insurance does not cover gifted testing because it is considered an educational evaluation, not a medical necessity. We’re happy to discuss the gifted testing cost and provide a clear fee structure when you contact our office.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How do I know if my child needs gifted testing?
A: If your child is excelling academically, showing advanced reasoning skills, or if the school has suggested testing, a private gifted evaluation may provide helpful insights.
Q: How long is the gifted testing process?
A: The IQ test takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. Afterward, you’ll schedule a 30-minute feedback session to review the comprehensive report.
Q: Will this evaluation diagnose ADHD or learning disabilities?
A: No. Gifted testing only measures cognitive ability (IQ). Diagnosing ADHD, learning disorders, or emotional concerns requires a separate psychological evaluation.
Q: Will my child’s school accept private gifted testing results?
A: Many schools accept private gifted assessments using standardized tests like the WISC-V or Stanford-Binet. We recommend confirming your district’s gifted eligibility guidelines.
Q: How much does gifted testing cost?
A: Costs vary depending on the provider and location. At Hammond Psychology & Associates, we’re happy to provide pricing and answer your questions when you call.
Why Consider Private Gifted Testing?
Identifying giftedness early allows parents and educators to better support a child’s academic and social-emotional development. Benefits of gifted testing include:
✅ Understanding your child’s unique cognitive strengths
✅ Qualifying for specialized gifted programs
✅ Supporting individualized educational plans
✅ Gaining peace of mind with professional insights
Looking for Gifted Testing in Tampa or Brandon, Florida?
At Hammond Psychology & Associates, our experienced team provides expert gifted evaluations in a comfortable, supportive setting. We proudly serve families in Tampa, Brandon, and the surrounding areas.
📞 Ready to schedule your child’s gifted testing?
Call us today at (813) 654-0503 or visit HammondPsychology.com to learn more.
Our licensed psychologists are here to help you navigate the gifted program process with confidence.