The Three Cs of Test-Taking: Dr. Brad's TV Interview and Tips

Get ready

Help your child:

• Get a good night’s sleep the night before the test – this means a normal night’s sleep, it doesn’t mean going to bed three hours earlier than usual.
• Eat a good breakfast the morning of the test – some protein, fruit, and a healthy carbohydrate are always good for getting the day off to a good start.

Go

Encourage your child to practice the “Three C’s” of test-taking:

• Confidence:  Be confident – think, “I am prepared.”
• Calmness:  Be calm – get comfortable and take a few deep breaths.
• Concentration:  Concentrate – follow the teacher’s directions and focus on each question.

Nervousness is Normal

• Being nervous can help students focus, but too much anxiety can get in the way of concentration. 
• Say to the child, “It’s OK that you are nervous.  That helps us stay alert.  You don’t need to be too nervous though.  You have been preparing for this.”
• Emphasize that the test is just one way to measure learning.
• Emphasize that the school has been preparing the student.
• Do not dramatize the test or the possible outcomes.