Children with test anxiety are so afraid of failing that they get nervous and can't do their best. It doesn't help to tell them to relax or to stop worrying. What does work to ease test anxiety is preparation.
Here are some tips:
- Insist that your children attend school regularly so they don't miss learning the material that they will be tested on.
- Provide a quiet place for studying at home.
- Encourage them to spread studying over several days.
- Discourage "cramming" right before a test. It increases anxiety and hinders clear thinking.
- Make sure they get enough sleep and eat a healthy breakfast before the test.
- Kids test better when they feel capable. Send them out the door with an "I know you will do well. You're prepared."
- Don't judge your children on a single test score. Many things can affect a score, including their health and classroom environment. Reassure them that no matter what grades they get, you will always love them.
Source: The Parent Institute