Chaplain's Corner

Louise Lathbury

As parents, we have all been through tests and exams. Our children may find it helpful to learn about our successes and failures, and how we managed those stressful times. Here are some other discussion points and tips that may help your family work through the upcoming NAPLAN tests.

Everyone gets stressed during tests and exams, even those people who don’t look as if they are worried. We all have to learn how to manage these feelings.
Stress may not feel good. However, it is the way our body prepares us to perform at our best.
Some people find it useful to write about their worries.
Before a test or exam, it may help to chew something (like jellybeans or fruit). Eating tells our body that we aren’t in a really dangerous situation.
Focus on doing your best at the questions in front of you. Don’t think about the past or the future.
To feel calmer, breathe out slowly and count (silently) ‘one-thousand, two-thousand, three-thousand'.
Keep your posture strong, as this tells your brain that you are feeling in charge of the situation.
Look after yourself by getting a good night’s sleep, eating breakfast (a mixture of protein and carbohydrates is good), and drinking water.
Remember, everyone has skills that will NOT be assessed by a test.

For more information, feel free to check out these websites:

https://kidshelpline.com.au/parents/issues/helping-kids-cope-exam-stress-0

https://headspace.org.au/young-people/surviving-school-exams-and-stress/