Tips to Help Your Child Prepare for MCAS
Parents and families can do several things to create a positive test-taking experience and help students prepare for tests. Here are some ideas:
The Day of the Test ● Make sure that your child is well rested and eats breakfast.
● See that your child arrives at school on time and is relaxed.
● Comfort counts. Send a sweater if it’s a cool day. Dress in layers for a warm day.
● Encourage your child to do the best work possible and to have a positive attitude.
● Encourage your child to listen/ read carefully to all test-taking directions and to ask questions if any directions are unclear.
● Remind your child not to get stuck on any one item.
● Encourage your child to check answers for accuracy.
To Reduce Test Anxiety
“Test anxiety” is worrying too much about doing well on a test. It can keep students from doing their best. Some ways to help reduce anxiety are:
● Talk about the test in a positive way.
● Encourage their best effort.
● Encourage your child to focus on his or her strengths, such as a good memory or strong analytical skills.
● Assure your child that the test is only one measure of academic performance.
● Assure your child that their teacher has provided them with excellent strategies to help them have a successful test experience. Remind your child to be confident and use these strategies.
Remember—you are very important to your child’s success in school and in life. Your interest and support let your child know you believe in him or her and that you value education. We hope these suggestions help you help your child have a positive testing experience.
