The Night Before The Test
1. Make sure your child doesn't go to bed angry.
2. Plan ahead to stay away from problems before the test. For example, it would help to avoid talking about a child's overuse of the phone or avoidance or chores. Your child could stay upset about the argument and not do as well on the test.
3. Keep the rules of the house. Stopping normal discipline or upsetting the usual routine of the home may confuse your child. This may also affect how well they can perform the next day.
4. Consider talking about the test to reassure and encourage your child. Try not to dwell on the subject though, as you may cause your child to worry unnecessarily.
5. Let your child know tests can be hard, but that taking them provides a chance to show how well they can do. The test will also help the teacher understand what your child needs to learn.
6. Consider playing an educational game like Scrabble or 20 Questions to help them get into the testing spirit.
7. Be encouraging.
The Morning Of The Test
1. Have your child get up early enough to avoid hurrying. Being to school on time is important.
2. Make sure your child eats a good breakfast--but not a heavy one. Don't force a child to eat, though. If he or she is nervous, too much food can cause them to become ill.
3. Have your child dress in a uniform that is comfortable. Being comfortable is important. New clothes or new shoes that pinch will be distracting.
4. Don't appear unconcerned about the testing. While your child needn't be afraid of tests, he or she needs to understand the importance of testing.
5. Be positive when you send your child to school. Let them know that you understand that tests can be hard, but that they are not designed to "punish" him or her.
After The Test
1. Reward your child for trying hard on the test. You might treat them to a special dinner, or allow an extra half hour of TV. Punishment for doing poorly will only hurt, because the test itself was punishing enough if they had a hard time.
2. Talk with your child about what was learned from the test. What would they do differently if they could take the test over?
3. Talk with your child about what can be done between now and the next time a test is given, such as trying harder on homework or listening more closely in class.
4. When you get the test results for your child, don't compare their performance with any other child's test results.
5. Please do not hesitate to discuss with the teacher any questions that you or your child may have about testing.
6. Think about how you can help your child better next time!