Gifted and Talented Programs and the NNAT Test

Helping Your Child Prepare for the NNAT Without the Stress

Many parents hope their child will qualify for a gifted and talented (G&T) program. These programs often offer advanced learning opportunities, accelerated instruction, smaller class sizes, and enriched academic experiences, sometimes at little or no additional cost. Because of these benefits, competition for admission into gifted programs has become increasingly competitive in many school districts.

One of the most common tests used for gifted program admissions is the NNAT, or Naglieri Nonverbal Ability Test. Unlike traditional academic tests, the NNAT focuses on nonverbal reasoning and problem-solving skills rather than reading ability or memorized knowledge. Students are asked to identify patterns, relationships, and sequences, and to use visual problem-solving strategies with shapes and images.

Can Children Prepare for the NNAT?

Yes — but preparation should feel fun, encouraging, and low-pressure.

Using NNAT-style practice questions and games can help children become more comfortable with the types of thinking skills used on the test. Practicing visual reasoning activities may strengthen skills such as:

• Pattern recognition
• Spatial reasoning
• Visual problem solving
• Attention to detail
• Flexible thinking

However, it’s important not to make NNAT practice stressful. Young children can become anxious when they feel excessive pressure to “perform” or to succeed on a test.

Start Simple and Build Confidence

One of the best ways to help children prepare for the NNAT is to begin with easier questions, so we recommend starting at a level or two below their current grade. For example, a second grader may benefit from starting with Pre-K or Kindergarten-level NNAT activities before gradually moving to more advanced questions.

This step-by-step approach helps children:

• Build confidence early
• Develop foundational reasoning skills
• Experience success quickly
• Reduce frustration and test anxiety

Because NNAT skills build on one another from year to year, starting with simpler concepts can create a stronger long-term foundation.

Make NNAT Practice Feel Like Play

The most effective NNAT preparation often looks more like a game than “test prep.” Children learn best when they are relaxed, curious, and engaged.

Parents can make practice more enjoyable by:

• Using short practice sessions
• Celebrating effort, not just correct answers
• Turning activities into puzzles or challenges
• Allowing breaks when children seem tired or frustrated
• Keeping the experience positive and encouraging

The goal is not perfection. The goal is to help children become comfortable thinking through unfamiliar problems independently.

Building Skills Beyond the Test

Even if a child does not ultimately enter a gifted program, the reasoning skills developed through NNAT-style activities can still provide long-term academic benefits. Nonverbal reasoning supports problem-solving, critical thinking, creativity, and flexible learning across many subjects, including math, science, and reading comprehension.

Most importantly, children who feel confident and supported during the learning process are more likely to develop a lifelong love of learning.