Help with children.

Posted by notyou (115 days ago)

I'd like to have some idea of my children's abilities academically. Do you have any ideas how to find out more? I'd like some way to compare them to other children.

(I am based in Hong Kong)

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Posted by axptguy38 (115 days ago)

How old are your kids? Is there any reason you want to do this?

You could try some sort of IQ test. However I personally feel that comparing in this way can harm the child's self esteem and/or pressure them unduly.

(I am based in Hong Kong)

Posted by Mighty (115 days ago)

Yes, I agree with axptguy38. Lots of IQ/EQ tests are not reliable anyway. Especially when the original thread mentions 'academically', I really cant see the point.

(I am based in Hong Kong)

Posted by Snow Rose (115 days ago)

My kids' pre-school allows parents to observe lessons so long as they request in advance. I did this a couple of times and learned a lot. For example, that I had supposed my then 3.5 yr old son to be interested in & good at the kinds of things I was interested in & good at at that age, whereas his real preferences and abilities were totally unexpected. I found he was actually quite a bit behind with his writing, compared with same age children, and especially when compared with same age girls. On the other hand he was very interested and good at number work & science activities.

If your children are young like this, it's a good way of finding out their abilities and preferences.

(I am based in Hong Kong)

Posted by notyou (115 days ago)

I've got 2 children. One seems bright but says she is bored. She is in a class with chidlren who I consider quite advanced so I would like an idea of her abilities and potential compared to others who are her age. Her teachers say she's fine or doing well, but I want a different more objective opinion. Doing well could mean she's not misbehaving, she's reaching her potential or that she's average or above. I would like to know what she is strong or weak in.

(I am based in Hong Kong)

Posted by axptguy38 (114 days ago)

I agree with Snow Rose that going to the school and seeing what happens is a good idea. No need for a scientific examination.

Also, children are often bored. Ask her what she wants to do and what she thinks. Perhaps she wants to take an extra-curricular class? Start a hobby?

(I am based in Hong Kong)

Posted by Snow Rose (113 days ago)

Notyou ~

You still haven't told us your daughter's age! I think the younger she is, probably the easier it will be to solve the problem. If she's pre-school age there's a good chance you'll be able to observe a lesson. If she's pre-school age you could consider changing her to a Montessori school. My boy goes to one of them and the kids are allowed to choose their own work and do it at their own pace, which would suit your child very well.

If your daughter is in primary, you could try the standard stuff first like talking to the teacher, supplementing with activities & hobbies. If the problem persists you may even consider changing schools. Different schools emphasise different stuff, maybe what your daughter really likes is not given much time at her present school? Or the teaching methods may not suit her.

If she's saying she's bored it doesn't necessarily mean the work is too easy, it's just as important to explore her interests and preferences as well as her level of ability.

(I am based in Hong Kong)