How Parents Can Help Children Do Their Best on Tests

The best thing you as a parent can do to help your child do his/her best on the STAAR and District Benchmarks is to provide positive support by expressing confidence in your child's ability to do their best.  Children should know that test scores are important, but are not the measure of your love and acceptance of them.

On tests days, try to provide a calm, stress-free environment each morning as your child gets ready and prepares for the school day.  Get up in plenty of time to avoid rushing around and anxiety.  Try to limit nighttime extra-curricular activities and outings that may interfere with their regular bedtime routine.

Help your child by teaching and reinforcing the following test-taking tips and strategies:

• Get Plenty of Rest Each Night
• Eat a Healthy Breakfast
• Have a Positive Attitude
• Relax
• Try Hard and Do Your Best
• Listen Carefully and Follow Directions
• Think Before You Answer
• Read Directions and Questions Carefully
• Don't Rush
• Check Over Your Work When Finished