Review: OLSAT Test Prep Level A

As we wrapped up our kindergarten year, I found myself searching for a comprehensive way to ensure our daughter had truly retained the core concepts we had covered. I quickly realized that traditional "end-of-year" exams for the kindergarten level are surprisingly scarce. That search led me to the OLSAT (Otis-Lennon School Ability Test) Practice Test for Levels A and B. Unlike standard subject-based testing, this booklet assesses cognitive abilities—the fundamental "how" of a child's thinking process. For those unfamiliar with the acronym, the OLSAT is a widely recognized tool used to identify students for gifted and talented programs, and this prep book is specifically designed for children ages three to six.

The manual begins with exceptionally detailed instructions on how to administer the exam based on your child's specific age group. Since our daughter is five, the protocol requires me to read each question aloud only once; the rest of the analytical work is entirely up to her. I have always suspected she possessed a sharp intellect, but watching her navigate these complex patterns and logic puzzles with such ease essentially confirmed my intuition. It provides a formal structure to observe how a child processes verbal and non-verbal information, which is fascinating for any parent-teacher to witness. 

One of the standout features of this workbook is the variety it offers. It includes four distinct practice tests that grow progressively more advanced as you move through the book. This prevents the "plateau" effect and keeps the student challenged. I was also incredibly pleased to see that the pages are printed in full color. Attempting to keep a five-year-old engaged through 60 questions in a drab, black-and-white format would be an uphill battle, but the vibrant illustrations make the "test" feel more like a series of fun puzzles. 

For those keeping score, the final pages include an answer key for all sections, including the sample questions at the beginning of each level. Whether you are specifically preparing your child for a formal OLSAT administration or you simply want a high-level activity to gauge their cognitive development, this book is an invaluable resource. It serves as both a benchmark and a "brain-building" exercise.

If you are looking for other elite-level kindergarten resources, I highly recommend exploring the curated kits from Timberdoodle. They consistently source items that push beyond standard "busy work" to foster genuine intellectual growth. This practice test was exactly what I needed to close out our school year with confidence, knowing my daughter is not just memorizing facts, but learning how to think critically and solve problems independently.