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Test anxiety is a very real phenomenon, and for many students, it can be nothing short of debilitating. As many as 16% to 20% of students struggle with test anxiety, making it the most prevalent type of academic impairment. Below, the reading and math tutors at FasTracKids in Brooklyn, New York, offer a few suggestions for ways you can help lessen your child's test-taking anxiety.

Prepare, Prepare, Prepare

Proper preparation goes a long way in decreasing test anxiety. Be sure your child attends class every day, and make certain you get their assignments for any days they may have missed. Incorporate study sessions into their daily schedule, as well as time for relaxation and play. In the days leading up to a test, leave ample time for reviewing and revisiting the material, and avoid "cramming" for tests as much as possible.

Get Plenty of Rest

math tutorGetting a healthy night's sleep can be difficult for anyone of any age, but sleep is essential to feeling calm, in control, and balanced. Make it a priority for your child to get a full night of sleep, especially on nights before tests and exams. Institute earlier bedtimes, even if you get pushback; there's simply no substitute for good sleep. A rested mind can better handle the challenges of test-taking.

Teach Relaxation Skills

Give your child easy, doable tips for managing any anxiety that might arise during a test. Deep, calming breaths are a great starting point; show them how to breathe in slowly, hold for a moment, and exhale the breath slowly. Also, teach them how to recognize intrusive and anxious thoughts and replace them with healthier ones. For instance, if anxiety becomes overwhelming and tries to tell the child they don't know the right answers, have them replace that thought with something more positive, such as, "I can break this problem down into steps and take it at my own pace."

If your child requires some extra academic help, let the reading and math tutors at FasTracKids give them the support and guidance they need. In addition to English and math tutors, FasTracKids also offers a variety of enrichment programs, gifted and talented test prep classes, and after-school options. Call (718) 260-8100, visit their website, or follow them on Facebook or Twitter for their latest schedule or to enroll the young learner in your life.

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