Things Parents Can Do at "Test Time"

State tests...it seems like there ore more of them than in the good ol' days when we were kids. And, it's true, there are! States and school districts across the nation are putting more emphasis on student evaluation. Whether you agree with this or not, there are some things as parents you can do to support your child at test time.

Tips for Parents

* Check your attitude! Sometimes just thinking about tests can make both students and parents anxious and angry. Hating tests won't make them go away. Bad attitude can actually pull down your child's performance. If you can't be positive about these experiences, you can at least strive for neutral comments about the testing.

* Talk to the teacher. Find out the days when the standardized tests are scheduled. Know the areas where your child struggles and may need extra help (eg. math facts, writing sentences, using descriptive words). Your child's teacher can direct you to supportive activities and resources.

* Communicate your expectations. Be sure your child knows that it is important to take the testing seriously, to be careful to follow the rules and directions, and to do her/his best. Your approval of her/his performance does matter!

* Equip them! Check to make sure your child has the correct kind of pencils, calculator, or other supplies needed for the test.

* Early to bed. Lots of research indicates that fatigue definitely impacts memory and thinking skills! A good night's sleep is very important the night before a big test...most elementary age children need at least 10 hours of sleep every night to perform their best at school!

* Prepare a good breakfast. Brains don't function well if the fuel supply is low or absent. A nutritious breakfast is a must! Cereal, toast, fruit, eggs--hey, even a peanut butter sandwich--will provided the needed energy for thinking.

* Keep things in focus. While important, these tests are just one way that schools and states check students'abilities. bon't believe, or let your child believe, that doing poorly makes her/him a failure. Value and celebrate your child for the uniquely blessed individual she/he is!