1. Make sure your child gets a good night's sleep before a test, and make sure your child eats properly the day of a test.
2. Maintain a pleasant home environment and avoid unnecessary conflicts. Try to make the morning of the test a pleasant one. Do not add to your child’s stress.
3. Ensure that your child is present during testing.
4. Get your child to school on time the day of the test.
5. Wish your child good luck each morning of the test. Tell your child that he/she is special and that you believe in him/her!
6. Remind your child the test is important. Encourage him/her to do his/her best.
7. Remind your child to listen carefully to the instructions from the teacher and to read the directions and each question carefully.
8. Explain to your child the importance of using time wisely. If your child gets stuck on a question, encourage him or her to make the best guess and move on.
9. Encourage your child to stay focused on the test, even if other students finish early.
Tips for Students
1. Be prepared! Do a good job studying so that you can feel confident about taing the test. Start studying a few days before, and make sure that you are understanding what you're reading.
2. Use positive self-talk to quiet the negative thoughts in your head. Say things like, "You can do it!" or "You've got this!" Picture yourself doing well on the test!
3. Find ways to calm your body before, during, and after the test. The more relaxed you are, the better you will be able to focus on doing a good job.
4. Take your time and focus on one question at a time. Take deep breaths and read each question carefully. Don't spend too much time on one problem.
5. Talk to a parent, school counselor, or teacher. They might be able to work with you to come up with coping skills that can help you be successful.
