Bright Ideas From Our Readers: Taking Tests
Thanks to the readers who have suggested ways to manage a child's stress before tests. Some readers describe how they make studying manageable for their children, others emphasize the value of teaching a child relaxation techniques and still others offer advice especially for children with ADHD:
How Parents Help Their Children Study
Don't wait until right before the test to prepare.
"My child's test scores don't reflect stress but we do homework all week long together. Set aside 30 minutes a day for homework - 15 for studies and 15 for reading together. Make it fun. Switch off who gets to read what so it's never the same. Use a timer. Allow 15 minutes of whatever they want to do after the first 15 of homework. Pay attention to signs of boredom or any other behavior which might signal concern. Put in some time now so it pays off for their future!"
"I think that test prep should be done during the school year rather than having an unusual heavy focus around January. At my daughter's school, they do a pretty good job of doing this during the school year, but I can feel at times increased pressure (in January for March's test). As a parent, I try to keep her balanced and find creative ways to learn, be it playing Lingo on the computer or doing quizzes from Animal Planet. I think that kids should not feel like they are on a 'production conveyor belt;' learning should be balanced, fun and interesting."
Break the information into chunks.
"What I have found works for our 9-year-old regarding getting ready for tests is to break the information up into smaller sections," says reader Jane Scott of Illinois. "Sometimes they are so overwhelmed by the amount of content they need to learn, they don't feel capable of learning/remembering any of it. By breaking the information up, one can feel successful when the information is retained and can be ready to move onto more content.
"Also, make sure they take a snack or stretch break. They can start to feel anxious when all they need to do is get a snack and replenish."
Review homework, try memory games.
A Houston mom emphasizes the importance of staying on top of daily assignments:
"First, make sure the child completes all their assigned homework. If parents also check their child's homework, the parent will see if the child understands what they are doing, and can review and explain the difficult parts in a way that best suits their child's learning ability. Review the chapters, class material, study sheets and notes with the child a day or two (or more) before the test, depending on age level.
"Older children may choose to study with each other if they are good students and have accurate homework and notes. For the few parts that just 'don't sink in,' kids and parents can make up silly phrases or clues or jingles to help jog the memory. Because they are silly, the child will remember it and will usually get it right. If the child (with their parents' guidance) has done all of the above, they should feel less stressed and confident to do their best on the test."
Practice with your kids.
"When my kids have a test for school or for an after-school activity, I make sure to study/practice with them," one parent writes. "The most important is telling them they're ready, and I've noticed that gives my kids confidence. Studying/practicing with them also makes it more enjoyable for my kids, this way they don't get bored or lose focus."
