As the state testing window approaches each school year, many WAVA learning coaches ask me for resources on the topic of test anxiety. Here are some ideas to help your child in all types of testing situations:

• Make sure your child in rested and well-fed. Tired and hungry kids are easily overwhelmed by tasks they could normally handle with ease.
• Talk with your child about how tests only measure certain types of knowledge. They are not an indication of everything they have learned or know. Tell them: Just do your best and let go of the rest!
• Prepare for tests in the weeks and months beforehand, but cramming for a test at the last minute is not recommended. This method greatly increases stress and negatively impacts test outcome.
• Talk with your child’s teacher about accommodations you can offer on course assessments, such as breaking the test into smaller sections over a few days, when needed.
• When testing at home (MAP, Scantron, etc.), consider allowing your child to keep a small comfort item near them during testing, if it’s not a distraction.
• For testing at home, consider allowing the child to test in a comfortable, sunny spot. A small change in setting can make a huge difference to one’s mental state.
• For cases of severe test anxiety, start small and celebrate success. The most important step to overcoming the anxiety is having positive testing experiences, so the child begins to associate tests with success, rather than feelings of fear or inadequacy.
• Consider talking with your child’s medical provider if anxiety is a frequent concern. Stress and anxiety are normal for all humans, but if it’s impacting the child’s ability to enjoy daily activities, it would be good to rule out medical causes and consider mental health counseling and other interventions.

Please take a look at KidsHealth.org for great articles on this topic, aimed especially at children! This website contains much helpful information for parents and children on a wide range of topics.

http://kidshealth.org/en/kids/test-anxiety.html?ref=search#

Additional helpful information on this topic:

http://education.more4kids.info/87/helping-kids-overcome-test-anxiety/

Thanks for reading! Feel free to contact me directly for additional resources or support.

Mr. Bieker

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