1. Dealing With Test Anxiety Parenting Your Teen BALANCING LIFE’S ISSUES, INC.

2. Objectives Definition of test anxiety Causes Who is vulnerable Best practices to alleviate test anxiety

3. Definition Test anxiety is a performance anxiety “Test anxiety is a condition that occurs when a child experiences discomfort, tension or increased concern in response to a situation in which they will be tested” source: www.kickoutstress.com www.kickoutstress.com Situational Physical symptoms Emotional symptoms

4. Causes Reaction to anticipating something stressful Pressure Fear Negative thoughts Lack of confidence

5. Who is Vulnerable Perfectionists Unprepared students  Poor study habits  Poor organization skills Procrastinators Inappropriate placement (too hard a class for student)

6. Best Practices To Alleviate Test Anxiety  Prepare, prepare, prepare  Basic stress management techniques  Get help (tutors, study groups)  Nip negative thinking in the bud  Accept imperfection  No cramming, sleep, sleep, sleep (minimum 8 hours night)  Learn test taking skills  Limit distractions when studying  Have students write about their anxiety before a high stakes test.

7. Parenting Your Teen Dealing With Test Anxiety