WHAT PARENTS CAN DO TO HELP REDUCE TEST ANXIETY
Students may experience anxiety about tests and heightened anxiety before a testing situation. A certain degree of test anxiety is normal and may help students prepare more effectively, work more efficiently, and remain focused during testing. Too much anxiety, however, can negatively affect performance. The following strategies may assist students, parents, and teachers in reducing test anxiety.
Parent Strategies for Reducing Test Anxiety
After Testing
- Discuss the test openly and in a positive way.
- Have realistic expectations of your child's performance while encouraging his/her best efforts.
- Emphasize that the test is only one measure of academic performance.
- Emphasize that test scores do not determine a person's worth.
- Avoid discussions that may cause stress.
After Testing
- Examine all test reports sent home.
- Determine areas of strengths and weaknesses.
- Praise your child's testing strengths and make a plan to address identified weaknesses.
- See your child's teacher, counselor or principal if additional information is required.