Chances are your child is getting ready to take tests that at certain grade levels can impact whether he/she goes on to the next grade or even graduates from high school. Here are 7 tips to help you and your child have a more positive test-taking and test follow-up experience:
1. If your child tends to be nervous when taking tests, ask the teacher for tips on helping him/her relax, or use strategies that have worked in the past.
2. See that your child gets his regular amount of sleep and eats a good breakfast before the test. Fatigue and hunger can detract from a good test performance.
3. Encourage your child to study over a period of time rather than to cram for a test.
4. Make sure your child is in school on test dates and during testing times. Being aware of your child's testing dates for the year will assure that you don't schedule any doctor or dental appointments during those times.
5. Encourage your child to listen carefully to all test directions given by the teacher and to ask questions about any directions that are unclear. Students also need a clear understanding of whether the test is timed or not.
6. Keep well-informed about what tests are being given and how the test results can affect your child's placement in school. If you do not understand how to interpret the test results, be sure to ask the teacher for an explanation.
7. Provide a positive atmosphere for your child on the way to school. Encourage his/her best effort.
