How Can We Help 3rd Grader do Better on Tests?

[DewDropInn]

Originally Posted by calgirlinnc

I definitely think it is test stress, because he almost threw up before the test, poor guy.

--His dad and I are not putting any pressure on him to do well on the tests; we are not punishing or anything like that for a bad grade. We just want to help him reach his full potential.

Thanks for the update Calgirl. Yes, if he is almost throwing up he has test stress. Classic symptom and I sure feel for him.

I am SO impressed with how you are handling this. Especially with what you said in the last paragraph. Please tell him that you love him and support him no matter how he does on the tests. I have an idea he is putting even more stress on himslelf by wanting to do well for YOU. Just let him know that all he has to do is his best.

This kind of kid won't slack off if you tell him "grades don't matter". But you will relieve him of an enormous amount of pressure. (He's putting a ton of pressure on himself. Trust me on this.)

Hang in there.

[num1baby]

Thanks for the update. Keep the updates coming. I really hope these changes will help. BTW, I just want to say what a great mom you are for trying to help him with his issues and looking for solutions that may not be traditional. A lot of parents would just take the stern approach even though that won't help the situation. So, good job looking for ways to help.

Originally Posted by DewDropInn

Thanks for the update Calgirl. Yes, if he is almost throwing up he has test stress. Classic symptom and I sure feel for him.

I am SO impressed with how you are handling this. Especially with what you said in the last paragraph. Please tell him that you love him and support him no matter how he does on the tests. I have an idea he is putting even more stress on himslelf by wanting to do well for YOU. Just let him know that all he has to do is his best.

This kind of kid won't slack off if you tell him "grades don't matter". But you will relieve him of an enormous amount of pressure. (He's putting a ton of pressure on himself. Trust me on this.)

Hang in there.

I agree.

[calgirlinnc]

So last week my son's teacher tested him separately, and he passed both his math and his spelling test (missed 2 on the spelling, but that is a huge improvement).

We are still studying the spelling words in new ways.

We are on the right track, now, I think.

As he gets older, I hope I can teach him more strategies for coping with test stress.

Thanks to everyone who was encouraging and supportive.

[DewDropInn]

Good job Calgirl. I'm very glad the teacher is working with you. That's huge.

Just out of curiosity, did you ask him how he felt about being able to take the test separately? If not if you have a nice, casual moment you might. It will give you another clue on how to work with his teachers and how to handle his schooling. But good job. I'm happy for both of you.

[num1baby]

I am very glad to hear that things are going well and you are finding things that work.

[eastwesteastagain]

Great news on the progress! Thanks for the update and so happy you, DS and his teacher are able to find ways to work together on this. Good job, mom!