We've got MCAS in the house this week and someone is freaking out! Not me. Or my husband. But the kid! UGH! I seriously can't talk about MCAS anymore. I understand that the teachers and administrators have to prepare the kids for the tests but I kind of wish they didn't tell them the test dates. Like, when I "surprise" Eden with a trip to the dentist. "Oh! My bad. We're not actually headed to the library. I just remembered we've got a dentist appointment today. We'll hit the library right after!"
The morning announcement at school could just be be like, "Whoppee! We get to do MCAS today! Aren't we lucky?! It's MCAS Day! It's MCAS Day! What a great surprise!"
I'm not taking sides on the standardized test debate here. I'm just saying -- the mood can get a little stressful in the home if you have a worrier for a kid and it's test time. And, since we moms are only as happy as our unhappiest child....a few tips to lighten the mood:
- This article from the US Department of Education suggests emphasizing to your child that the tests are not so much evaluating how much your child knows, but rather how she is taught: "The results of some tests tell schools that they need to strengthen courses or change teaching methods. Still other tests compare students by schools, school districts or cities."
- Adventures in Widsom suggests keeping your own opinions of standardized testing to yourself and modeling positivity: "Finally, remember that kids often look to us to see how they should respond to things. If you’re anxious about the test then they will feel anxious about the test too. Talk with them about the importance of always doing their best work and let them know that you believe in them and their ability to do well."
- This piece from the National Education Association has some unique suggestions for how teachers try to help their students relax on test dates. One suggestion I think would work for my girl -- let them bring a small stuffed animal or other "lovey" to keep in their backpack on test day. Just knowing there is a comfort item near can help allay worries.
- Emphasize that they just need to do their best. That they already know everything they need to know for the standardized tests. Their job is to relax and answer the questions the best they can.
- Reassure them that the test is not timed and that they will have as much time as they need to complete it. They have no reason to feel rushed.
- If your child is feeling especially overwhelmed due to test week, consider letting them sit out their regularly scheduled enrichment class or sports practice and let them use that time for free play.
- Plan a quiet week or weekend if possible around the test dates with plenty of downtime. We found a marathon arts and crafts session at home this weekend coupled with a trip to the movies to be a great distraction. Many schools will forgo homework on testing nights. Use this an an opportunity to do something fun as a family that evening to blow off some steam.
- Let them talk about their concerns. Listen. Give positive feedback. Even if it's over and over and over again.
This is so very helpful. Thanks, 413Mom!
Posted by: Sara | 04/04/2016 at 09:57 AM