Tackling Test Anxiety - Exceed in Learning

Tackling Test Anxiety

Test Taking

Spring is getting closer…the days are getting longer…and standardized testing is right around the corner.  Yes, it’s THAT time of year again.  It’s standardized testing time!  This can be a very stressful time for our kids.  In this blog, I will share a few ways parents can help relieve test anxiety, stress and pressure.  So, take a deep breath and let’s get started!

Talk it Out

If your child is feeling anxious about the upcoming assessments, ask why.  Often we can calm our child’s fears by giving them the opportunity to express their concerns and voice what they are afraid of.  If your child is afraid of doing poorly on the test, reassure them that standardized tests are only ONE measure of what kids are expected to know at this moment in time.  Your reassurance and support will help him feel less nervous. 

Help Your Child Practice

Help your child feel more prepared by familiarizing him with the format of the test.  Your state’s Department of Education website often has sample questions and other materials to help kids get acquainted with the test.  Teachers routinely use these samples to help their students prepare for state testing.  

Take Care of the Basics

Make sure that your child gets a good night’s sleep the night before testing, and don’t let him skip breakfast! Research shows that kids who eat breakfast in the morning before a standardized test score significantly higher in math, spelling, and reading than those who don’t.  It also helps them deal better with frustration.  

In closing, as the standardized testing season approaches, help ease your child’s anxiety by following these suggestions. Respond to any concerns that your child has with encouragement and support. Remember, standardized tests are only ONE measure of your child’s learning, but you want to set them up for success.