How You Can Help Your Child Prepare for High School Admission Tests.

By: Christine Carroll,

Preparing for high school admission tests can be a stressful time for both students and parents. As a parent, you want to provide the right balance of support, guidance, and encouragement to help your child succeed. Here are some practical ways to help your middle schooler build strong study habits, reduce test anxiety, and stay organized throughout the admissions process.

1. Establish a Study Routine

Consistency is key when preparing for high school admission tests. Help your child create a study schedule that includes:

• Dedicated Study Time: Encourage daily or weekly sessions rather than last-minute cramming.
• Breaks and Downtime: Short breaks between study sessions improve focus and retention.
• A Distraction-Free Environment: Set up a quiet, organized study space, away from distractions like TV or social media.

2. Teach Effective Study Habits

Support your child in developing strategies that maximize learning:

• Active Learning: Encourage summarizing information, teaching concepts to others, and using flashcards instead of passive reading.
• Practice Tests: Simulating test conditions with timed practice exams helps build endurance and familiarity with the format.
• Note-Taking Techniques: Show them how to use outlines, color coding, and visual aids to organize information.

3. Address Test Anxiety

It’s normal for students to feel nervous about high-stakes exams, but parents can help reduce anxiety:

• Normalize the Experience: Remind your child that feeling nervous is a natural part of test-taking.
• Teach Relaxation Techniques: Deep breathing, mindfulness, and positive self-talk can help manage stress.
• Encourage a Growth Mindset: Emphasize effort and progress rather than perfection—learning from mistakes is part of the process.

4. Stay Organized with a Study Plan

High school admissions tests require preparation in multiple subject areas. Help your child break tasks into manageable steps:

• Create a Checklist: Track important test dates, registration deadlines, and study goals.
• Use a Planner or Digital Tools: Calendar apps or a simple notebook can help track study sessions and assignments.
• Set Small, Achievable Goals: Instead of overwhelming your child with big tasks, break them down into daily or weekly objectives.

5. Provide Emotional and Practical Support

Beyond academics, students need encouragement and reassurance:

• Be a Cheerleader, Not a Critic: Celebrate small wins and acknowledge their hard work.
• Encourage Healthy Habits: Good nutrition, sleep, and exercise play a huge role in cognitive function and focus.
• Know When to Seek Extra Help: If your child is struggling, consider a tutor or academic coach who specializes in test prep.

Final Thoughts

By fostering strong study habits, addressing test anxiety, and keeping your child organized, you can play a vital role in their test preparation journey. The key is to provide guidance without adding pressure—creating a positive learning environment where they feel supported and empowered to succeed.

Remember, preparing for high school admission tests is not just about the test itself, but about building lifelong skills in time management, resilience, and self-motivation. Your child can approach the challenge with confidence and a mindset for success with your support!