How to spot the Bright Spark in your class
Classic things for teachers to look out for, identified by Mensa's gifted child consultant, Lyn Kendall
Sense of Humour
may be mature beyond years, odd or inappropriate
Compulsive Communicator
if you won't listen, they will talk to somebody else
Inability to sit still
fidgeting, fiddling, a master of origami
Ability to multi-task
the sort that never looks as if they are paying attention, but then gets high marks in tests
Poor handwriting
classic case of the hand not being able to keep up with the brain
Leader rather than follower
hates to be one of the crowd
Does well in tests but class work less impressive
bright children tend to have excellent memories
Questions everything
including the teacher. Awkward questions a speciality!
Unusual hobbies or interests
may have a vast and detailed knowledge of something unexpected
Hates to lose or be wrong
will refuse to take part rather than risk failure
Difficulty in making or maintaining friendships
potential friendship group is smaller
The Mensa Supervised IQ Test is suitable for children aged over ten and a half years. Younger children should be assessed by an educational psychologist to find out their IQ score - your local health authority or education authority can help you to find professionals in your area.
Mensa also offers a Schools IQ Testing programme.