All teachers want their children to do their best on standardized tests.
Stress affects children in testing situations. There are a few principles
that might help lower the stress and raise the scores.
Keep The Pressure Down -
Making a big deal about the upcoming tests
raises the stress levels in children. They may not sleep well; their
digestion may be disturbed; their kidneys will be activated; and
their elimination process may be disturbed.
Train them to relax by dong things they enjoy in the evening
before the test. It is best to get the test off their minds.
Get Them Relaxed Just Before Test Time -
Do some fun things in the classroom to reduce their tensions. Music
and dancing can be very good activities. Play simple games.
Engage In Physical Activity -
Before the test it is very beneficial
to do exercise or outdoor activities. Take them for a walk outside
or do a running game. Exercise reduces nervous tensions and clears the mind.
Avoid Rushing -
Whenever possible help children avoid rushing
during the test. Rushing triggers the stress reaction and builds
up inner tensions. Children should learn to go at their own pace
and slow down when necessary.
Relax At Intervals During The Test -
During breaks in the test children
should relax by making a Tight Fist saying to themselves "Tense".
Then opening their hand saying "Relax". This should be repeated
several times. Also use the Countdown to Calmness technique.
Start counting at ten, nine, eight down to one saying "Be Calm" at the end.
Practicing these stress reducing principles may well increase the
scores of children on standardized tests. Some will benefit more
than others. Children who are not doing well with schoolwork will
benefit the most.