Watch the child perform a three-minute acting scene, monologue, song, dance routine or other mode of creative expression. Rate the child's performance on a scale from one to four: average, proficient, impressive or gifted.
Speak to the child about his background and practice schedule. A child is more likely to answer you more candidly and honestly than a parent would. Ask how long the child has studied this art form and how often he practices. A child who has studied relatively little in conjunction with an elevated performance score could possess a high level of talent. A steep performance score from a child who rehearses every day and who has studied an art form for years still indicates talent, just not on as profound a level. A child in this latter case, however, does have a good work ethic, which is equally important.
Give the child a harder piece to perform than the one she had prepared. Explain to the child that you don't expect her to do it perfectly and that you just want to see how she handles cold material. Give the child five or ten minutes to prepare in a quiet room and then watch the performance.
Rate the child's performance on a scale from one to four: average, proficient, impressive or gifted. If the child scores above average or higher, take that as evidence of a level of great talent.