Testing Season

Spring break is over, the pollen is dropping, and the heat is climbing - READY OR NOT - it’s Testing Time. Florida educators state-wide are sharpening all their #2 pencils and breathing deep for those l-o-n-g, exhausting days of standardized testing.

The controversy behind these assessments grow every year, but until major changes take place, the brunt of the stress falls on the teachers, testing administrators, and the students. The testing windows cram multiple days for several subjects and makeup days. Everyone is typically caught mentally between “Stay positive and do your best” and “This is the longest day of my life!”

Bonfire Digital Wellness recently released Tips and Resources to help with testing prep and we wanted to share this on to you:

Ace the Testing Season: Top Tips & Resources for Success

Hi everyone,

Standardized testing season is here! While it's natural to feel some stress, with the right approach your child can thrive. We've got your back with some great links for resources and everything!

Boost Skills & Confidence:

1. Practice Makes Perfect: Utilize free practice tests and resources from Khan Academy or your state's Department of Education website (find them through the Department of Education Directory.

2. Positivity is Key: Encourage visualization techniques and positive affirmations to boost confidence.

3. Time Management Matters: Teach time budgeting and pacing strategies like tackling easier questions first.

Support Physical & Mental Wellness:

1. Fuel for the Brain: Emphasize a balanced diet with protein and complex carbs (check out healthy breakfast ideas). Encourage hydration and healthy snacks.

2. Move it or Lose it: Schedule short activity breaks during studying and encourage regular exercise (explore fun exercise routines here).

3. Calm the Mind: Promote relaxation techniques like deep breathing exercises before bed for better sleep.

Strategize for Peak Performance:

1. Break it Down: Set small, daily study goals and create a realistic study schedule with breaks.

2. Dedicated Study Space: Choose a quiet, well-lit area with minimal distractions.

3. Practice Consistently: Regularly revisit practice tests and explore different types of study materials for engagement.

4. Positive Home Environment: Celebrate progress and offer emotional support throughout the process.

Bonus Tip: Limit screen time before bed and during study sessions.

Be a Supportive Parent:

• Model Stress Management: Openly discuss your own coping mechanisms and practice them together.

• Open Communication: Create a safe space for your child to express anxieties and actively listen without judgment.

With these tips and ongoing support, your child can approach testing with confidence. Remember, a calm and prepared student is a confident student!

Additional Resources:

• American Psychological Association: Stress Management for Students

• National Education Association: Tips for Parents During Testing Season

About BonfireDW:

With holistic coaching support, encompassing screen balance, social, emotional, and academic guidance, as well as expert insights into social media dynamics, BonfireDW offers adolescents the tools and support they need to thrive in a digital world.

Want to discuss more with your dedicated Family Advocate? Schedule a call to explore further.

Ready to get started? Enroll in our 1-month free coaching trial today and embark on a journey towards holistic wellbeing and academic excellence.

Please remember, the scores that come in are a tiny reflection of your daily magic as an educator. You know how much growth your students have achieved. Any growth is improvement, and necessary learning. In the words of our friends at Inclusiveology, “There are so many ways that students can show you what they’ve learned, a test is just one of them. Believe in your students and know that they’ll do their best.”

We, FUELS, want to thank you all for your endless fight to enhance our student’s intellects and empowerment. Also, the silver lining of testing season is that…the END is near! After the anxiety of assessments are behind you, you then can focus on wrapping up all those loose ends to close another school year. And we cannot wait to help you again!