High-stakes testing is a fact of life. Students of all ages
will take standardized tests throughout their school careers.
While some students are naturals at test-taking, others need
help to do their best.
A publication titled “Principal Communicator” outlined four
conditions that parents can use to help their children feel confident about
tests.
They all start with “R”: Being Receptive, Relaxed, Ready,
and Rested.
Being “Receptive” is important. Parents can help children
develop a receptive attitude toward school in general, and testing in
particular.
They can do this by making sure students understand that
testing is merely a part of the learning process, and that it is a measuring
stick for how much they have learned.
The second “R” is for “Relaxed.” Anxiety can block the
best-prepared student from doing well on a test.
Two effective ways to overcome anxiety are the third and
fourth “R’s” — getting Ready by studying well in advance, and being Rested
rather than staying up late to cram the night before the test.
It’s important to help children avoid getting hung up on how
hard a test might be, or the consequences of doing poorly. Remind children
about the satisfaction that comes from trying their best.
Make sure they know you think they will do well, but that
your approval of your child as a person does not depend on a test score.
