Test Preparation

To help children prepare adequately for tests (whether teacher-made or standardized), you can do several things to provide support and create a positive test-taking experience.

1. The best way to prepare for tests is to study, know the work, and take the right courses. Encourage your child to study over a period of time rather than "cram" the night before.  

2. If your child is nervous at test time, ask her teacher for tips on helping her relax.

3. Make sure that your child is in school during the testing sessions. Do not plan any doctor or dental appointments on test dates.

4. Make sure that you are aware of your child's performance and that you can help interpret the results when they become available.

5. Remember to keep well-informed about your child's tests. Know how test results are used, and how they will affect your child's placement in school.

6. If there are major differences between standardized test scores and school grades, find out why.

7. Encourage your child to listen carefully to all test-taking directions given by the teacher and to ask questions about any directions that are unclear.

8. See that your child gets his/her regular amount of sleep before the tests and is well-rested.

9. Make sure that your child eats his/her usual breakfast on the day of the test. Hunger can detract from a good test performance.

10. Encourage your child to do his/her best.

Source: American School Counselor Association