How Parents Can Support Their Child During the Test Prep Journey

How Parents Can Support Their Child During the Test Prep Journey

As the owner of J&J Test Prep, I have seen firsthand how the support of a parent can make a world of difference in a student’s test prep journey. Preparing for the SAT® or ACT® can be a stressful experience, but with the right guidance and encouragement, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here are some tips on how you can support your child during this period:

1. Start Early

One of the best ways to reduce stress and improve scores is to start preparing early. Reaching out to a test prep professional well in advance allows for a more relaxed and effective study schedule. This way, your child won’t have to cram all the material in a short period, which can lead to burnout and anxiety.

2. Plan for Multiple Retakes

It’s important to remember that taking the SAT® or ACT® more than once is perfectly normal. In fact, I recommend planning to take a test 2-3 times. Planning for multiple test dates can minimize the pressure of having to perform perfectly on one specific day. This approach also provides your child with the opportunity to learn from their mistakes and improve their score over time.

3. Create a Post-Test Ritual

Establishing a post-test ritual can be a great way to help your child relax and decompress after the exam. For example, my mom and I had a tradition of going out for sushi after each test. This not only provided a much-needed break but also gave us a chance to celebrate the effort and hard work put into preparing for the test.

4. Emphasize Effort Over Results

Make sure your child knows that you are proud of their effort, regardless of the outcome. Emphasizing the importance of hard work and dedication can help build their confidence and reduce the anxiety associated with test results. Remember, the skills they develop during the test prep process—such as time management, critical thinking, and problem-solving—are valuable beyond just the tests.

5. Provide a Conducive Study Environment

Creating a quiet and comfortable study space can greatly improve your child’s ability to focus and retain information. Ensure they have all the necessary materials and resources, and minimize distractions as much as possible. This could mean setting up a dedicated study area in your home or finding a local library where they can concentrate.

6. Stay Involved and Communicative

Keep an open line of communication with your child about their progress and any challenges they may be facing. Regular check-ins can help you stay aware of how they’re feeling and offer support when needed. Being involved doesn’t mean hovering; it means being there to listen and provide encouragement.

7. Utilize Professional Resources

Professional test prep resources can offer structured guidance and proven strategies that are tailored to your child’s needs. Studying without dedicated materials — or even just practice tests — typically is not as effective as starting out with a resource that provides a holistic overview of both content and strategy.