I hear your point. A parent really has to weigh the "need" level for agreeing to have your child tested for IQ.

So why test?

1. To "gain" entry into a school program for gifted.

Special funds are allocated by some states and districts that provide children identified as gifted with a more accelerated or enriched education tailored to their intellectual abilities. Without that gifted label your child cannot enroll. Of course gifted programs differ greatly and are only as good as the teacher. So check the program carefully. What you read on paper is not always what materializes in the classroom.

2. The test helps you understand your child's intellectual strengths. The test results may help you parent more effectively.

Each gifted child is gifted in a different area. (And gifted kids aren't gifted in all areas). So if you do decide to have your child tested, make sure you ask the credentialed psychologist who administered the test to interpret those results, and describe those findings. Then ask what recommendations he might have for your child's learning.

There are other benefits for testing, but those are main ones that help both you and your child.

More Q&As about gifted children:

1. Are we pushing too hard?
2. Should she go to public or private school?
3. Should I even bother labeling my child as gifted?
4. Why are parents embarrassed of having smart kids?
5. How can I boost my child's academic confidence?

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Dr. Michele Borba is the author of over 22 books including 12 Simple Secrets Real Moms Know .