ASK THE EXPERT

​

​

 

 

 

Our fourth-grader seems really anxious and stressed before any school tests. How can we help ease her anxiety and best set her up for test success?

​​

In today’s educational system, taking tests regularly has become a common practice in the classroom. While these assessments can help educators guide classroom instruction, form instructional groups, and assess students’ understanding of state standards, teachers and parents may also notice an increase in displays of physical and emotional symptoms of test anxiety with their students.

​

If your child is showing signs of test anxiety, it may help to talk with the child’s teacher. Engaging in dialogue with your child’s teacher will allow the opportunity to create a plan whereby parent and teacher can use common language to help ease the child’s worries and concerns over test-taking.

When at home, keep test talk on the light and positive side. Help alleviate some of their anxiety by helping them feel prepared. Communicate with your child’s teacher and be aware of when testing is taking place. Some examples of preparing your student prior to testing include: reviewing their daily work, asking questions about what they are learning and providing support when you see your child may be having a difficult time understanding a topic. Often times the curriculum that your district uses will have online student and parent resources to help the family understand the concepts being taught as well as videos on how to help at home. Try to explain that the assessments they take are a way to show their teacher what they know and what they may need more help with. Tests are not meant to be just a grade in the grade book.

Most importantly, when students receive their assessment results, make sure to celebrate what they did well and show them how much they have learned since the beginning of the year. If you notice that your child is consistently doing poorly on their tests, talk with their teacher to rule out any learning challenges that may be a factor.

​

​

 

 

 

​

​

Trena Rose is a fourth grade teacher at Bayshore Elementary

School with the Anchorage School District.