Test Taking Skills

by Thomas Armstrong, PhD

Tests, unfortunately, are becoming more and more common in our schools, creating test anxiety and learning blocks in our kids that get in the way of school success. However, you can help your child cope with the negative effects of testing by providing them with the necessary skills for coping with these stresses. Here are some ideas:

• Teach your child a relaxation exercise he can do quietly befor an exam. For example, suggest that he breathe deeply and slowly three times before taking the test. Or, have him imagine a favorite peaceful scene in his mind's eye.
• Encourage him to think positively about the test and his ability to succeed. Suggest that he form a mental image of himself doing well and receiving the highest grade.
• Recommend that he look over the whole test right at the very beginning and do the easiest parts first, then items of moderate difficulty, saving the hardest parts for last.
• Finally, if he runs into difficulty or feels like he's going to panic, teach him to close his eyes, say the word "relax," and imagine the answer coming to him easily and naturally.

  Following these guidelines will certainly add extra points on to your child's final score.

| TNPC Home | ParenTalk | Articles about Preteens | Comments for TNPC |

Programmed and Hosted by ParentsPlace.com,
The Parenting Resource Center on the Web.
http://www.parentsplace.com/
Last modified: Oct 24, 1995