When I was a kid, it wasn’t such a big deal. We knew it was coming, but not until a few days before. I never remember feeling stressed or anxious about it. It was simply state testing, and all we had to do to prepare was eat breakfast and bring a #2 pencil.
As a parent of 3 kids, I have seen the increase in the build up to the state mandated tests that are required each May. These tests are thought to be the measure of all the hard work our teachers have done over the past year. (As if a test could really tell you everything they have taught our children). Both teachers and parents are often guilty of putting too much emphasis on end of year testing and not enough emphasis on the really important part of the year when students are doing the learning!
We should all work together to make sure our students know that we are confident they will do well, and that they have all the skills they need, because they have been working hard all year.
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Here are 5 ways to do just that:
1) Stay positive and encourage positive self talk. Send praises, compliments, and specifically point out the great things they are doing.
2) Let children know that their best is enough. They are not always going to do everything perfectly or win every game, but ask that they try their best at all times.
3) Encourage down time after testing. A fun way to calm your child’s mind is through meditative drawing. Check out this fantastic article from Mica’s World, Doodle your way to a calm family today! and sign up for her newsletter while you are there!
4) Have fun, smile and laugh. Embolden your child to be confident and have fun by taking pride in their performance and make the most out of the opportunity to showcase their talents!
5) Reassure your child that they will be loved and supported no matter the outcome. The results of these test do not define who your child is or who they will become.
(Thank you to Amber Rice and Darcy Swartout, teachers at Gold Hill Elementary School, for contributing to this article.)
