As a teacher in the state of California, I embark on the task of proctoring several standardized-test to teenagers every school year. The PSAT (Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test), SAT, (Scholastic Aptitude Test) ACT,(American College Test) CST (California Standards Test), and the CAHSEE (California High School Exit Exam) are just a few of the test that I administer to students annually. I know that my teacher friends in other states have there set of test which makes the issue of standardized-testing one that is nationwide. Regardless of how parents, teachers, and teens may feel about the amount of testing that's done in today's school, the fact remains that testing is a reality for all students. In fact, in order for today's students to graduate high-school, most must pass a standardized-test known as the High School Exit Exam. So while the debate continues concerning the amount and quality of standardized-testing, my responsibility as a teacher is to ensure my students are prepared. As much of a duty I have in preparing my students to take tests, experience has proven that when parents and teachers join forces, it results in a more successful outcome.
When parents include these tips in their household, teens become better prepared and have an overall better testing experience.
Tip #1. Sit Down and Have a Test Talk.
Like a pep-talk, a test-talk is a great way to let your child know that you are aware of what's taking place at school. Many of today's standardized-test are similar or the same type of test that were given during the time period the parents were in school. Did you ever take the SAT? Have you ever had test anxiety? Don't hesitate to share that you have taken standardized-test during your years in school. When teens are able to break the ice and let go of there anxiety, it makes a dramatic difference when they enter the testing room.
Tip #2 Print Out Practice Questions
Tip #3 Positive Affirmations!
Provide your child with positive affirmations and teach them how to do positive self-talk. If I had a nickel for every time I heard a teenager say, "I'm no good at test." I could retire and spend my days relaxing on my own private island. Teenagers have so much negative self-talk going on in their head that positive affirmations are essential to the self-esteem of a child before, during, and even after a standardized-test. Positive Affirmations need to be your child's go to method for building his/herself up daily. Use your position as a parent and teach your child how to incorporate daily affirmations. It doesn't matter if you choose the affirmations from a bible, an affirmation book, or the internet; teaching your teen how to engaged in positive self talk works wonders!
Tip #4. Make Sure Your Teen Gets Enough Sleep.
This is an oldie but goodie tip. We have heard this one for years and while many teens may think its unrealistic for their parents to do a "lights out" on them the night before the test, it certainly is beneficial. Make sure your child is in the bed early enough the night before testing. Even if your child does not fall asleep immediately, the stillness of the night will have a calming effect that your teen will benefit from.
Tip #5. Punctuality is Everything.
Make sure your child is EARLY to school on test day. Many schools have alternate bell schedules for testing and usually have students report to a different testing site. While small changes may not seem like a big deal, showing up to Period 1 in building 4 right on time turns into being very late when the testing site for the day is in the Library located on the 2nd floor of building 2. The extra minutes lost can easily add to the child's testing anxiety and result in increase stress levels. Ensuring your child arrives early allows the your teen time to get settled and relaxed before the issuing of the test.
Tip #6. Follow Up For Reflection.
Let's not have our teens take the test only for it to become a forgotten feat. Instead, lets put on some accountability and some reinforcement. Again, its a tag-team partnership that the parent and teacher embarks into to ensure the ultimate level of success for the child. You can have this reflection at Yogurtland, over a game of chess, or while splitting a slice of pound cake at your local Starbucks. The important things to include with the reflection is to make a moment out of it with your teen. Many times following up appears to be a lecture of some sorts to teens, so having it in a relax environment puts the teen off the defense. The social outing helps to provide a sense of community and illustrates that education is important in the child's household.
To learn more parenting tips or to audit a certified parenting course for FREE, send your email to sshiradillo@gmail.comAll classes are currently being held in Los Angeles, CA at various locations or your can join one of the over the phone programs.
Shira Dillon was born in Gary, Indiana. She holds a Master's Degree in Secondary Education, and a Bachelor's Degree in Speech, Theater, and English Education. Shira is a SAG/AFTRA actress and comedian that infuses her talents in the entertainment industry, her own childhood experiences, and her 15+ years of experience in the school system to help parents and teens all over the country fix their life and relationships. With the release of her teen self-help book, Sex, Drugs, and Other Elephants:How To Deal With Teenage Issues, Shira has been highly sought out for parenting/teaching consulting, coaching, workshops, and speaking engagements.
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