IQ tests for children can offer early insights into learning potential, problem-solving skills, and cognitive development. But what’s considered a “good” IQ score for kids at different ages? In this guide, we explain how IQ works in children, the average range by age, and how to interpret the results fairly and constructively. For a deeper explanation of how intelligence testing works overall, you can also explore our guide on what IQ really means.
What Is an IQ Score for Children?
IQ (Intelligence Quotient) is a standardized measurement used to evaluate a child’s cognitive abilities—including reasoning, memory, problem-solving, verbal skills, and non-verbal processing. These tests are designed to compare a child’s performance to the average performance of children the same age.
Modern child-focused IQ tests such as the WISC-V (Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children) and the Stanford–Binet Intelligence Scales use:
- Mean (average): 100
- Standard deviation: 15
This statistical structure ensures that most children fall between 85–115, with fewer children scoring extremely high or low.
If you want to understand how IQ varies over the lifespan, you may find our article Does IQ change with age? helpful.
1. How Age-Norming Works
IQ tests for children are age-normed, meaning a score is interpreted relative to same-age peers.
A 7-year-old who scores 100 is performing at the exact average for all 7-year-olds—not for adults, teenagers, or younger kids.
2. Why Age-Norming Matters
It prevents younger children from being penalized for developmental differences, ensuring the score accurately reflects their stage of growth and learning.
IQ Score Ranges for Kids: What Do They Mean?
| IQ Score | Category | Interpretation |
| 130+ | Gifted or highly gifted | Top 2%; may benefit from enrichment or accelerated programs |
| 115–129 | Above average | Strong reasoning, fast learner |
| 85–114 | Average | Typical intellectual development |
| 70–84 | Below average | May struggle in some academic areas |
| Below 70 | Possible intellectual disability | Needs further evaluation and support |
Parents looking to understand giftedness may also want to explore what an IQ of 130+ indicates.
Average IQ Scores by Age
| Age | Average IQ Range |
| 2–4 | 90–110 |
| 5–7 | 90–110 |
| 8–10 | 95–115 |
| 11–13 | 95–115 |
| 14–16 | 100–115 |
These values represent age-adjusted norms. That means a 5-year-old with an IQ of 100 is just as average (intellectually) as a 15-year-old with the same score.
What’s Considered a “Good” IQ for a Child?
There is no single “perfect” IQ score—context matters. However, general ranges help parents understand where a child falls relative to their age group.
1. IQ Score Ranges for Children
85–99: Below Average to Low-Average Range
Children may need more academic support. For deeper insights, our article on IQ 80 and below can help.
100–114: Average to High-Average Range
This represents typical age-appropriate learning ability.
115–129: Above Average / High Ability
Children often learn faster, grasp new concepts easily, and may benefit from enrichment programs.
130+: Gifted Range
This score may qualify a child for gifted programs, accelerated learning paths, and specialized support for advanced abilities.
2. Important Note: IQ Scores Are Not Absolute Labels
IQ reflects how a child thinks—not their overall potential. Emotional intelligence, creativity, and motivation also play huge roles. You may want to explore IQ vs EQ in childhood for a more balanced view.
Can a Child’s IQ Change Over Time?
Yes—especially during early to mid-childhood.
Children’s brains are still developing rapidly, meaning cognitive abilities can shift based on:
- Quality of education
- Home environment
- Sleep and nutrition
- Emotional well-being
- Mental stimulation
- Supportive relationships
1. Why IQ Can Increase
Skills like memory, problem-solving, and language can strengthen through practice and exposure.
A child scoring 90 at age 6 may score 105–115 by age 9 after receiving consistent support and stimulation.
2. Why IQ Can Decrease
Factors such as chronic stress, trauma, poor schooling, or lack of enrichment can temporarily lower test performance—though not necessarily innate ability.
High IQ ≠ Guaranteed Success
A high IQ is only one ingredient in long-term growth and achievement.
1. Other Factors That Matter Just as Much
Emotional Intelligence (EQ)
Children with strong self-regulation and empathy excel in relationships and teamwork.
Curiosity & Motivation
These traits drive exploration and deeper learning—qualities that even IQ can’t measure.
Grit & Resilience
Long-term success requires persistence, not just cognitive talent.
Social Skills
Communication and cooperation are essential in modern classrooms and workplaces.
High IQ children can struggle if they lack emotional support, stimulation, or appropriate challenges.
To help nurture these traits holistically, you may find our article on supporting gifted children after an IQ test meaningful.
How Can Parents Support Their Child’s Intellectual Growth?
Parents play a major role in shaping cognitive development—sometimes more than genetics or formal education.
Practical Ways to Boost Development
1. Read Together Daily
Ask open-ended questions (“Why do you think this happened?”) to build reasoning and language skills.
2. Use Educational Games and Puzzles
Free logic-based resources like fun brain games that boost IQ can help.
3. Encourage Unstructured Play
Free play fosters creativity, problem-solving, and independent thinking.
4. Praise Effort, Not Intelligence
This builds a growth mindset—kids learn to enjoy challenges rather than fear failure.
5. Support Strengths and Gently Build Weaknesses
Children thrive when supported holistically, not judged solely by scores.
Final Thoughts
IQ tests can provide helpful insights—but they’re just one piece of the puzzle. Whether your child scores 95 or 135, the most important factor is how they are nurtured, challenged, and encouraged to explore their full potential.
Want to know where your child stands? Try our image-based IQ test for kids — it’s fun, fair, and designed for ages 5–12!
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