by: Lindsay Hutton
To help children prepare adequately for tests (whether teacher-made or standardized), you can do several things to provide support and create a positive test-taking experience.
Study the Material
The best way to prepare for tests is to study, know the work, and take the right courses.
Help Your Child Relax
If your child is nervous at test time, ask her teacher for tips on helping her relax.
Plan Your Schedule Accordingly
Make sure that your child is in school during the testing sessions. Do not plan any doctor or dental appointments on test dates.
Ask Your Child How He Did
Make sure that you are aware of your child's performance and that you can help interpret the results when they become available.
Know How the Results Will Affect Your Child
Remember to keep well-informed about your child's tests. Know how test results are used, and how they will affect your child's placement in school.
Take Action
If there are major differences between standardized test scores and school grades, find out why.
Set a Study Schedule
Encourage your child to study over a period of time rather than "cram" the night before.
Speak Up
Encourage your child to listen carefully to all test-taking directions given by the teacher and to ask questions about any directions that are unclear.
Get Some Sleep
See that your child gets his/her regular amount of sleep before the tests and is well-rested.
Eat a Nutritious Breakfast
Make sure that your child eats his/her usual breakfast on the day of the test. Hunger can detract from a good test performance.
Be Her Cheerleader
Encourage your child to do his/her best.
Brought to you by the American School Counselor Association
