Between March and June, millions of students across the country will take some form of a standardized test before the school year ends.

Whether your child is in a school that has chosen the new online tests to support Common Core State Standards, or they are implementing traditional assessments with #2 pencils, it is important that you make sure your child is prepared for testing day.

Research

First, I suggest you talk with your child’s teacher(s) and ask what type of test they will be using. Your child’s teacher may have access to or recommendations for test-prep materials. Then, do your own research online, as practice test questions are often available. Practice will help your child feel more comfortable and ready on testing day.

Practice

Once you have the resources ready, work with your child to go through sample test questions. Help your child read the questions carefully and think about the best approach to answering them. As your child answers questions incorrectly, try to provide targeted practice on your own, or request additional help from the teacher to help your child grasp the skill that is needed.

Prepare

You can help your child prepare for tests by doing the following five things every day:

1. Assist with homework and help ensure your child knows how to read directions carefully.
2. Create a positive learning environment and encourage good study habits.
3. Ensure your child has good attendance in school.
4. Encourage your child to read various types of texts (magazines, textbooks, fiction) to increase vocabulary and reading skills.
5. Develop a relationship with your child’s teacher so there is open communication and personalized help for your child.

After the Test

Once the test has been scored, review the test with your child’s teacher and your child.  Depending on the results, discuss next steps.

Test-Prep Resources

Last of all, Evan-Moor offers resources to provide your child skill practice throughout the school year. You may be interested in test-prep resources such as these books and e-books:

• Skill Sharpeners: Reading
• Skill Sharpeners: Spell & Write
• Skill Sharpeners: Math
• Daily Reading Comprehension
• Daily Common Core Math Practice
• Language Fundamentals

Contributing Writer

Trisha Thomas is the mother of two and serves on the board of directors at a co-op preschool. She has also been a marketer of educational materials for grades PreK–8 for more than 15 years.