Conquering Test Anxiety: A Paren't Guide

CONQUERING TEST ANXIETY DR. EDWARD THALHEIMER & THE TUTORING CENTER

It is normal to have some stress and nervousness when it comes to taking an assessment; however, some children experience testing anxiety that is much more extreme than just being nervous.

The fear they experience can be paralyzing in nature. It can manifest itself in physical symptoms such as stomach aches and headaches.Whatever the reason for the anxiety, it can be difficult for parents to know how to help.

So we’ve gathered a few tips for parents whose children suffer from test anxiety that you may find helpful.

ASK QUESTIONS & REMAIN POSITIVE Talk with your child about upcoming tests with a positive mindset.

Determine what about the test is causing anxiety. By understanding the nature of the anxiety, you can better prepare them with specific coping strategies.

Have reasonable expectations for your child’s performance on tests.

Reassure your child that tests are not the only way to measure academic achievement and that their results on a test do not determine their worth.

Encourage them to do their best, get a good night’s sleep, and eat healthy meals.

REVIEW BASIC TEST-TAKING STRATEGIES Empower your child by ensuring they have a firm grasp on basic test-taking strategies.

Remind them to read directions carefully and take their time.

Remind them they’re allowed to ask questions about the instructions when they are unsure.

Teach them to identify questions they can answer immediately, and skip over difficult questions until they’ve completed the easier ones.

Teach them to eliminate potential answers on multiple-choice tests which they know are incorrect, and then select their answer from the remaining options.

HELP THEM PREPARE Find out what format the test will take.

Help your child plan ahead and schedule out time to review the material.

Ask your child what questions they think will be on the test.

Take practice tests when available, or have your child make up their own test.

Have your child reorganize their notes and outline the main points of what they’ve been studying in class.

POSITIVE SELF-TALK We all have an inner voice that can be rather judgemental at times. Teach your child to reframe negative thoughts and “talk back” to that voice.

Teach your child to view testing with a positive mindset -” it’s a way to demonstrate what you’ve learned,” or “it’s a challenge, and you’re up to the task.” Encourage them to believe in themselves and their abilities.

RELAXATION STRATEGIES Teaching your child some basic relaxation strategies such as deep breathing can go a long way in helping them remain calm during the test.

Give your child tips on grounding techniques, closing their eyes, focusing on one sensory detail at a time while taking deep breaths. Have your child imagine themselves doing well on the test – visualization can lead to actualization. Some children find comfort in routines, like an athlete’s pre-game ritual, so help them come up with their own ritual for test-taking.

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