Kids are way stressed out this time of year. Standardized tests and all that test prep has got them strung super thin. There is a much better way
Learn how to test prep with less stress
Visualize during test prep
Picture it: you are taking the test and it is going well. You are confident in the material. You’re calm and serene. You are breathing deeply.
Seriously, my AP English teacher in high school took us through a visualization routine during class and right before the test. I scored a 5.
In the weeks leading up to your child’s test, do the same thing for him. Close your eyes together and talk through the ideal test situation. Create a little ritual that is subtle, like folding her hands, to start the 
Test prep with yoga
Use yoga to help chill out before tests. I do yoga personally before tough situations or challenging days.
I really like Child’s Pose and Corpse Pose. Both are super easy to do and kind of beg for your eyes to be closed.
Another favorite is Downward Facing Dog. I love the stretch it gives through my back and legs.
Or you could do a full sun salutation routine:
Get a great
to help you get super into your family’s new yoga routine!
Eat during your test prep
Try something crunchy, like pretzel sticks or popcorn. Have your child imagine crushing the test as they nosh on their snack. This would be a great visualization to use with the first tip!
Or go with something full of protein, like nuts or chia seed pudding. If there are allergies in the classroom, keep the nuts at home!
Skipping breakfast is really not a great way to start a testing day, or really any school day. Having a full belly helps kiddos to focus on the task in front of them, instead of on their rumbly tummy.
Make it special, by serving your child’s favorite foods or something with lots of sticking power. Great choices are eggs, oatmeal, and Greek yogurt.
Grab these yummy snack ideas for on the go eating:
Remember to relax during test prep
The night before the test, have your child take a nice long bath. Make it special, with 
After the bath, talk through the routine for the morning using a calm voice and relaxed language.
Ex: First, you’ll wake up and stretch. Then, you’ll come downstairs and eat your breakfast. After you are dressed, we can drive to school while we listen to (insert favorite music here). When you take the test, you’ll stretch out and take a deep breath.
You could also add in a calming yoga or stretching routine!
Listen to music during test prep
Which singer really gets your kid going? Or calms her down? On the way to school or as she is getting ready, crank it up and rock out! Dance around your house, sing along, or shoulder shimmy in the car.
You’ll get a little bit silly which can help to release stress and build up positive energy. I do this during super hard runs: a high energy song helps me to power through and keep my pace steady.
How do you help your kids test prep without stress? Tell me in the comments!
~Meg
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