

		The Cool School Subscription PTAs, school counselors, and teachers use the Cool Kids Lesson Kits to teach children important skills for being respectful, responsible, and resilient and provide parents with practical tips for effective parenting. To learn more, go to www.coolkidschannel.com. Tips for Parents These e-tips may be used in communications to parents. Include Dr. Brad Schwall's name and the Cool Kids website, www.coolkidschannel.com. Click here for a Word document of these tips for re-printing >> For more tips for parents or to subscribe to Cool Kids E-tips, click here >> Dr. Brad on TV Dr. Brad Schwall appears every other Sunday on Dallas/Fort Worth's ABC affiliate, WFAA-TV, Channel 8, offering tips on parenting and familiy life. His next appearance: Sunday, March 2, 8:15 a.m.

Preparing for Tests, by Dr. Brad Schwall

It’s almost TAKS time. For kids in Texas, that means the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills, and that means some kids may feel anxious. Now is the time to start preparing children emotionally for their standardized tests. How can parents help their children tame their nerves and prepare for tests?

What can parents do to help their children prepare for standardized tests now?

Encourage a positive attitude about tests
Emphasize that the purpose of tests is to show what you have learned

How can parents support the school in test preparation?

Talk about preparations
Talk about the practice tests taken at school
Ask your child about what the tests are like to help your child know what to expect
Talk about the skills being taught
Encourage your child to take his or her time and to check his or her work when taking the test

How can parents prepare their children the night before and the morning of the test?

Help your child be physically prepared
Have a calm routine and help your child get to bed in time for a good sleep the night before the test
Give your child a good breakfast the day of the test
Encourage your child to relax and not worry

What if your child is especially nervous?

Encourage confidence
Encourage positive self-talk: "I am prepared." "I can do this."
Encourage your child to focus on the moment - the task at hand, on doing what he or she practiced rather than the possible outcome

Preparing for a standardized test is much like preparing for any important task.

Be positive
Know what to expect
Practice
Take care of yourself physically
Focus on the moment
Think positive thoughts