Rockin' the Test with LESS Anxiety

As the month nears the end, so does our month long series of "Rockin' the Test with Less Prep and Less Stress."  Today's topic includes ways to relief anxiety.

My son is 12 and is autistic.  He is SOOOO smart, but HATES tests.  His perfectionism does not help the situation at all.  Before any major tests, we go through a routine to help calm his nerves and help him understand what to expect.  Through him and a few others that I have taught along the way, I have learned a thing or two about how I can help the kids not stress out quite so much.  

Here are some of the things we do:

• Schedule breaks--Sometimes we (teachers) can't control the schedule we are given in which we must test.  But, whenever possible, allow the kids to get up and move around.  Just knowing there will be some time to relax can help!  

• Let the kids eat mints or chew gum--Not only is there research that peppermint can "open" up the mind, but having something in their mouth can help them focus on something besides their anxiety.

• Practice breathing techniques--Slow, thoughtful breathing can help relax the body and the mind.  

• Give them something to look forward to--Plan some fun in the afternoon, assign NO homework all week, let them bring in a stuffed animal from home.  Any of these things can give a child something to look forward to and focus on rather than the anxiety they are feeling.

• Stretches and exercise--Before, during a break, and after the test allow them to do some stretches, get their "wiggles" out, and maybe even play a game!  In my class, during each break, we played a quick round of silent ball.  Kids who wanted to participate could move around the room quietly to play the game.  Those who wanted to just stretch or walk around could do that.  Everyone had to stay quiet (classrooms nearby were still testing and we weren't "allowed" to let them talk with tests to finish).  

• It's all about the wording--Unfortunately, some states have adopted policies that we know are NOT in the students' best interests.  However, right before the test is not the time to remind kids that if they don't pass the test, they don't (fill in the blank with your state's threat!).  Instead, reassure them that this is similar to the classroom tests we take each week in our class.  They are testing ME, not you.  I just want to see what you know, what you are learning, and what I still need to teach you.  Using words that put the "work" on you instead of the kids can really ease stress!

Whatever you decide to do, just make sure YOU stay calm and relaxed.  If you are calm, they will feed off that energy and be calm too.  Remember, you are a super HERO to them and they look up to you.  Here's to a SUPER year of state testing for you and your kids!

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Check out these previous posts about ways to prepare for the state testing:

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