Is your child feeling nervous before a test? As a parent, you might wonder what to say to help them through this anxiety. In this informative video by Live On Purpose TV, Dr. Paul Jenkins shares 5 specific things you can say to your child before a test that will make a difference. First, he explains the concept of test anxiety and the optimal level of stress that actually increases performance. Then, he dives into the 5 messages you can convey to your child, such as reassuring them that they have prepared well and reminding them that it’s normal to feel a little nervous. By watching this video, you’ll gain valuable insights on how to support your child through the test-taking process and help them perform at their best.
Understanding Test Anxiety
Test anxiety is a very common experience for many students. It is the feeling of nervousness, stress, and anxiety that occurs before or during a test or exam. This anxiety can be detrimental to a student’s performance, as it can interfere with their ability to focus, recall information, and demonstrate their knowledge. Understanding test anxiety is crucial in order to help your child navigate through it and perform their best on their tests.
The effects of stress
Stress is a natural response that our bodies have to situations that we perceive as threatening or challenging. In small doses, stress can actually be beneficial as it can motivate us to perform well and enhance our focus and alertness. However, excessive stress can have negative effects on our performance, causing us to feel overwhelmed, anxious, and unable to think clearly. It is important to find the right balance of stress for optimal performance.
The optimal level of stress
Research has shown that there is an optimal level of stress that can enhance performance. This optimal level is different for each individual and can vary depending on the task at hand. If the stress level is too low, a person may feel unmotivated and lack focus. On the other hand, if the stress level is too high, a person may feel overwhelmed and unable to perform at their best. Finding the right balance of stress is crucial for your child’s success in tests.
Preparing for a Test
Reinforcing preparation
One of the most important things you can say to your child before a test is that they have prepared well. While they may feel that they could have done more or studied longer, it is important to reinforce the preparation they have already done. Remind them of the time and effort they have put into studying and assure them that they are well-prepared for the test. This will help boost their confidence and reduce any anxiety related to their level of preparation.
Acknowledging nerves
It is also important to acknowledge and normalize the feelings of nervousness that your child may be experiencing before a test. Let them know that it is completely normal to feel a little nervous before something important, such as a test. By normalizing these feelings, you can help alleviate some of the anxiety and let your child know that they are not alone in experiencing these emotions. This can provide reassurance and help them feel more at ease.
Tuning Into the Body
Asking about power up
Encourage your child to tune into their body and pay attention to the physical sensations they may be experiencing before a test. Ask them if they can feel the “power up” in their body. This question may catch them off guard but it serves to help them become aware of the physical responses that their body is naturally producing to prepare for the task at hand.
Helping them understand body’s preparation
After asking about the “power up,” help your child understand that their body is actually preparing them to perform their best on the test. Explain to them that the physical sensations they may be feeling, such as increased heart rate or butterflies in their stomach, are signs that their body is gearing up to support them in accomplishing the task. This reframing can help them view these sensations as positive and reassuring rather than something to be anxious about.
Conveying Confidence
Reminding them they’ve got this
Reinforce your child’s confidence by reminding them that they are capable and prepared. Remind them of their past achievements and successes, and let them know that they have the skills and knowledge needed to succeed on the test. Encourage them to trust in themselves and their abilities, and remind them that they have faced challenges before and come out victorious.
Reassuring with parental confidence
Your confidence in your child can greatly impact their own feelings of confidence. Express your belief in their abilities and reassure them that you have confidence in their performance. Let them know that you have seen them work hard and that you believe they will do well on the test. Your reassurance can provide them with an extra boost of confidence and alleviate some of their anxiety.
Expressing Love and Support
Importance of expressing love
In times of stress and anxiety, it is important for your child to feel loved and supported. Express your love for them and let them know that your love is unconditional. Knowing that they are loved and supported can provide them with a sense of security and comfort, especially during stressful times such as test-taking.
Supporting them in any situation
Your support for your child should extend beyond just their performance on tests. Let them know that you are there for them no matter what happens, whether they score well or not. Remind them that their worth is not determined solely by their academic achievements and that you love and support them regardless of their performance on tests.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are several important things you can say to your child before a test to help them navigate test anxiety and perform their best. Reinforcing their preparation, acknowledging their nerves, helping them tune into their body’s preparation, conveying confidence, and expressing love and support are all key messages that can make a positive impact on your child’s test-taking experience. As a parent, your support and reassurance are crucial in helping your child succeed and thrive academically.