At Cumberland County Schools, we understand that testing season can bring added stress for students and families. Whether a child is in elementary, middle or high school, families play a vital role in helping them feel prepared and confident. Below are tips tailored to each grade level to help reduce stress and encourage success during test time.
For Elementary School Students: Building Confidence Early
Young learners are still developing test-taking skills, so fostering a positive mindset is essential.
• Establish a Routine: Consistent sleep and morning routines set the foundation for a successful test day.
• Encourage a Growth Mindset: Praise effort, not just results. Let your child know that mistakes are part of learning.
• Make Learning Fun: Use games, songs and flashcards to reinforce concepts in an engaging way.
• Practice at Home: Review material in short, focused sessions. Ask your child to explain concepts to you in their own words.
• Provide a Nutritious Breakfast: A balanced meal fuels the brain and keeps energy levels steady.
For Middle School Students: Strengthening Study Habits
As students transition into more challenging coursework, structured study habits become key to success.
• Help Organize Study Time: Break studying into smaller chunks over several days rather than cramming the night before.
• Encourage Note-Taking: Writing down key points while studying can help with retention.
• Teach Stress-Reduction Techniques: Deep breathing, stretching or short walks can help calm nerves before a test.
• Limit Distractions: A quiet, well-lit study space helps students focus.
• Maintain a Healthy Routine: Ensure your child gets enough sleep and eats balanced meals leading up to test day.
For High School Students: Mastering Test-Taking Strategies
With standardized tests, final exams and college entrance exams, high school students need effective strategies to perform at their best.
• Develop a Study Plan: Encourage setting a study schedule for major exams like the SAT, ACT or end-of-course tests.
• Use Practice Tests: Taking timed practice exams can build familiarity with test formats and improve time management.
• Review Test-Taking Strategies: Teach techniques like eliminating incorrect answers first, reading questions carefully and pacing themselves during the test.
• Balance Study and Relaxation: Encourage regular breaks, physical activity and social time to avoid burnout.
• Provide Emotional Support: Remind your student that one test does not define their future and their hard work is what truly matters.
CCS Supports Your Student’s Success
At Cumberland County Schools, we are committed to equipping students with the tools they need to succeed. As a parent or guardian, your support and encouragement can make a tremendous difference in reducing test anxiety and helping your child perform at their best.
For more resources, check out our "Testing Prep at Every Level and What the Score Means" video on the district’s YouTube channel. This virtual session provides families with valuable tips and resources to help students prepare for End-of-Grade and End-of-Course tests in CCS. Learn what the scores mean and how to best support your child throughout the testing process.
Visit the Cumberland Family Academy Archives at https://bit.ly/3QKzrP4 for additional support and resources.
Together, we can ensure every student approaches testing with confidence and achieves their full potential!