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Kids and Test Taking

Help your child be better prepared to take state mandated achievement tests given yearly by school districts.

By The Schoolmarm | May 11, 2008    

credit: michaleState mandated achievement tests are usually given in May and June of each school year. Hopefully the school has kept you informed during the year as they offered test preparation studies. You may be well aware of things to do to help your children during the stressful time, but here are a couple of reminders:

• Make sure they get adequate sleep, starting well in advance of the testing period. A sudden change in sleeping schedules may work to a disadvantage instead of helping.
• A good breakfast is always recommended, but certainly on days when they need to be extra alert. Taking a granola bar or a piece of fruit along to eat after they arrive at school, or at recess, might be a good idea as well.
• Don't create more anxiety for your son or daughter by over emphasizing the importance of the tests. Some children think they will be held back if they don't do well. That sets up fears that will only work against them.
• Make sure they arrive at school on time. It is very difficult for the teacher as well as the student when they arrive after the tests have started. Many times they have to wait and take the test on a make-up day, because they have missed part of the test.
• Some children develop stomach aches and other complaints, not wanting to go to school on test days. Help them understand that they are not expected to know everything on the test, but that you do expect them to make good effort.

For additional tips, add your child's teacher for her suggestions.

The Schoolmarm

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