Gifted Testing Parent Advice

Karen and Michael Answer Questions of the Week

(Audio Teleseminar Nov. 11, 2010) – Top 1% and Top 5%

In this 36-minute audio teleseminar, Karen Quinn and Michael McCurdy answer parent questions about gifted testing, verbal development, school readiness, and helping children succeed academically and emotionally.

Parents preparing children for gifted and talented programs, private school admissions, and academic assessments often have concerns about test anxiety, listening skills, vocabulary development, and self-confidence. During this teleseminar, Karen and Michael provide practical strategies parents can use at home to support learning while keeping the process positive and encouraging for young children.

The discussion includes ways to naturally build preschoolers’ verbal skills and vocabulary through conversation, storytelling, games, and everyday activities. Parents also receive advice on helping children prepare for the listening comprehension portions of the OLSAT, especially the multi-step oral directions, which can feel overwhelming for younger students.

Karen and Michael also discuss common parent concerns about repeat testing, including how to handle situations in which children have recently taken another assessment, such as the Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scales or the ERB. Families relocating to New York City will learn about the gifted and talented admissions process, including how testing works for pre-K applicants and what to expect on testing day.

Another important topic covered is helping children who may feel academically behind or struggle with confidence in school. Karen and Michael share encouragement and suggestions for parents working to improve reading, writing, comprehension, and academic habits while also protecting a child’s self-esteem and motivation to learn.

Questions answered during this teleseminar include:

1. What activities can help improve a 4-year-old child’s verbal skills and vocabulary?
2. How can parents help children prepare for the listening and multi-step directions on the OLSAT?
3. Should parents tell an ERB tester that a child recently took the Stanford-Binet?
4. How can parents explain repeat testing to young children without creating anxiety or suspicion?
5. What is the process for families moving to NYC and applying for gifted programs?
6. What happens during gifted testing for pre-K children at NYC schools?
7. How can parents help a child who is behind academically while also building confidence and self-esteem?
8. What can parents do if a child struggles with listening comprehension, retelling stories, or following directions during testing situations?

This teleseminar offers reassurance, practical parenting advice, and helpful strategies for families navigating gifted testing, school transitions, and early academic challenges.