Testing for Gifted and Talented School Programs

Gifted and Talented (GT) assessments go by many names—GT, G/T, TAG, GATE, Gifted and Talented Tests, and Gifted/Talented Education. No matter what they are called, the process can feel overwhelming for parents. The idea that a single test could determine your child’s educational trajectory adds pressure, along with the deadlines and applications that accompany it. Fortunately, Tema Therapy is here to guide you through the process.

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testing and evaluation

Understanding Gifted Assessments

Gifted assessments are required for entry into specialized programs in public and private schools. These tests evaluate a child’s ability to think critically, reason logically, and solve problems beyond their age level.

 

About TEMA Therapy

TEMA Therapy offers Diagnostics & Testing services for anyone wishing to learn more about their symptoms, find their possible causes, and get guidance on their next steps.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about our unique approach to assessment and testing.

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Gifted Children Testing: Language Skills

Gifted children have started forming complex sentences and understanding advanced language by the time they are two years old. They do speak fast, know most complex vocabularies, learn words easily, and show their profound curiosity about the world, always wanting to know all the details.

 

What Defines Giftedness?

Experts debate the definition of giftedness. Some rely solely on IQ scores and academic performance, while others consider creativity, leadership, and artistic talent. Gifted and Talented Tests are often used to identify these abilities. Regardless of the definition, giftedness results from a combination of genetic and environmental factors shaping brain development.

 
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Characteristics of Gifted Children

Gifted and Talented Tests help identify children with exceptional abilities by assessing various cognitive, academic, and emotional traits. Gifted children display distinct characteristics that set them apart from their peers. These include:

Cognitive and Academic Traits

  • Advanced language skills—using complex sentences before age two, a rich vocabulary, and fast learning.

  • Exceptional memory and rapid comprehension of new concepts.

  • A strong preference for reading over physical activities.

  • Deep curiosity and insightful questioning.

  • Independent learning and resistance to conventional teaching methods.

  • The ability to focus intensely on topics of interest.

Emotional and Social Traits

  • Sensitivity to others’ emotions and heightened empathy.

  • Frustration with slow-paced conversations or explanations.

  • Leadership abilities and a preference for solitude at times.

  • Intense emotions, occasional anxiety, and self-examination.

  • Strong creative problem-solving skills and unconventional thinking.

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Types of Gifted Assessments

Gifted and Talented Tests use various methods to measure a child’s intellectual, academic, and emotional development:

  • Intellectual Testing – Evaluates cognitive abilities, including verbal and nonverbal reasoning, fluid intelligence, and working memory. Results are often presented as IQ scores.

  • Achievement Testing – Assesses academic skills such as reading, math, and problem-solving to compare performance against peers.

  • Supplementary Psychological Testing – Measures creativity, problem-solving, emotional resilience, empathy, and social skills.

  • Psycho-Educational Testing – Identifies learning deficits or processing issues that may impact Gifted and Talented Tests results.

By understanding the role of Gifted and Talented Tests in identifying advanced learners, parents can better navigate the assessment process and support their child’s unique abilities.

Our approach

Why Early Identification Matters

Recognizing giftedness early ensures that children receive the appropriate educational opportunities to nurture their abilities. The benefits of gifted programs include:

  • Accelerated Learning – Access to challenging curricula suited to advanced cognitive skills.
  • Skill Development – Enhancement of critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership abilities.
  • Creative Exploration – Participation in specialized projects that foster imagination and innovation.
  • Personalized Learning – Prevents boredom and underachievement by providing stimulating educational experiences.
  • Long-Term Growth – Lays the foundation for lifelong intellectual and personal success.

Expert-Led GT Test Preparation at Tema Therapy

Tema Therapy offers expert resources to prepare students for a range of gifted assessments:

  • NNAT (Naglieri Nonverbal Ability Test) – Practice materials for Kindergarten through 4th Grade.
  • MAP (Measures of Academic Progress) – Study guides for Kindergarten through 12th Grade.
  • OLSAT (Otis-Lennon School Ability Test) – Test prep for Pre-K through 12th Grade.
  • CAT4 (Cognitive Abilities Test) – Drills and simulations for Years 2 through 11+.
  • CogAT (Cognitive Abilities Test) – Preparation for Kindergarten through 6th Grade.
  • SCAT (School and College Ability Test) – Tailored materials for Elementary, Intermediate, and Advanced levels.
  • CCAT (Canadian Cognitive Abilities Test) – Grade-specific practice for Kindergarten through 6th Grade.
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How to Help Older Children Prepare for GT Tests

  1. Encourage Motivation – Help them see the test as an opportunity for growth rather than a challenge.
  2. Expose Them to Various Question Types – Ensure familiarity with all sections of the test to boost confidence.
  3. Avoid Common Mistakes – Teach strategies to prevent rushing, misreading, and skipping difficult questions.
  4. Use a Progressive Approach – Start with easier questions, then increase difficulty to strengthen foundational skills.
  5. Practice with Bubble Sheets – Standardized tests require accuracy in filling out answers, which practice can improve.
Our approach

Navigating Educational Placement

Gifted and Talented Tests play a significant role in identifying gifted children, but a gifted assessment does not automatically place a child in a gifted program. School boards evaluate multiple factors, including:

  • IQ scores (typically requiring the 98th percentile or higher), often determined through Gifted and Talented Tests.

  • Academic achievement levels, which are assessed using standardized evaluations, including Gifted and Talented Tests.

  • Adaptability, behavior, and enthusiasm for learning, which provide additional insight beyond test results.

Placement Options

The IPRC (Identification, Placement, and Review Committee) determines the most appropriate educational setting, which may include:

  • Self-contained gifted classes for students who qualify through Gifted and Talented Tests and other evaluations.

  • Part-time enrichment programs that enhance learning alongside standard curricula.

  • Mainstream classrooms with supplemental activities to challenge high-achieving students.

For children who do not meet program criteria based on Gifted and Talented Tests, alternative options include private schools focused on advanced learners or after-school enrichment programs tailored to their interests.

OUR STAFF

Meet our Therapists

For more online therapist profiles

Dr. Irina Volynsky

Clinical Director

Specialty: Clinical psychologist working with adults, children and families. Testing and Therapy

Licenses: New York, New Jersey

Languages: English, Russian, Ukrainian

Dr. Emile T. Berk

Psychologist

Specialty: Clinical psychologist working with adults, adolescents and children. Testing.

Licenses: New York, New Jersey

Languages: English

Irina Bashkirov

Mental Health Counselor

Specialty: Adult and child therapy

License: New Jersey

Languages: English, Russian, Hebrew

Andrew Roetman

Supervised Therapist

Specialty: Therapy and testing perfumed under the supervision of clinical director

Languages: English and Spanish

Natalia Rowe

Language and Feeding Specialist

Specialty: Speech-Language/Disphagia Therapist

Licenses: New York, New Jersey 

Languages: English, Russian

Amaury Hernandez

Behavioral Conditioning Coach

Specialty: Sensory Integration, Emotional Regulation

Certificates: Personal Trainer, Sensory Integration, Parkour

Languages: English, Spanish

Natallia Khamenka

Therapist

Specialty: Psychoanalysis and Psychotherapy

Licenses:  New Jersey – pending

Languages: English, Russian, Belarusian

Zhanna Beyl

Social Worker

Specialty: Psychotherapist working with teens, adults, couples, and families 

Licenses: New York, New Jersey

Languages: English, Russian

Katya Chizhova, LCSW

Clinical Social Worker

Specialty: Psychotherapist working with the elderly and people with acute and chronic medical conditions

Licenses: New York, New Jersey

Languages: English, Russian

Darina Konstorum

Supervised Mental Health Counselor

Speciality: Adult and Child Therapy. Group Therapy

Licenses: New Jersey – pending

Languages: English, Russian

Tamara Kapustina

Health Coach & Personal trainer

Specialty: Personal Trainer. Executing Functioning Trainer.

Languages: Russian, Ukrainian, English (Intermediate)

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Tema Therapy has been a ray of hope in my battle against depression. The therapists here create a warm and nurturing environment, allowing for open and honest discussions. Their compassionate approach helped me feel safe while exploring the root causes of my depression. Through their guidance and evidence-based techniques, I've experienced significant progress in my emotional well-being. Tema Therapy is a beacon of light, reminding us that recovery from depression is possible.

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Tema Therapy has been instrumental in unlocking my true potential despite learning disabilities. The therapists here possess an in-depth understanding of different learning challenges and provide personalized strategies that cater to individual needs. Their patience, encouragement, and innovative techniques have empowered me to overcome obstacles and succeed academically. Although progress can take time, Tema Therapy has proven to be a transformative resource for individuals with learning disabilities, offering a path towards brighter futures.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Have more questions? Email us at [email protected] for further queries.

Have more questions?
Email us at [email protected] for further queries.
How do I know if my child should take a Gifted and Talented Test?

If your child displays advanced cognitive, academic, or creative abilities compared to their peers, taking a gifted test can help identify their strengths and provide appropriate educational opportunities.

What happens if my child doesn’t qualify for a gifted program?

Many options exist beyond school-based programs, including private gifted schools, online enrichment courses, and extracurricular activities tailored to their abilities.

What is the best age to test for giftedness?

While some assessments can be taken as early as preschool, many experts recommend testing between ages 5 and 8 for the most reliable results.

How should my child prepare for a gifted test?

Exposure to different question formats, logical reasoning exercises, and problem-solving activities can help. Structured test preparation programs like those at Tema Therapy can also provide valuable practice.

Do gifted children always excel in school?

Not necessarily. Some gifted children struggle with boredom, social difficulties, or learning differences that require tailored educational support.

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