PSSA Tips for Parents
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Maintain a pleasant home environment and avoid unnecessary conflicts. Try to make the morning(s) of the test pleasant ones. Do not add to your child's stress.
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Make sure your child gets a good night's sleep before each day of testing, and make sure your child eats properly each day of the test.
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Make sure your child has taken any needed medication.
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Ensure that your child is present during testing (children generally perform better when taking tests in their groups rather than at a make-up time).
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Get your child to school on time each day of the test.
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Wish your child good luck each morning of the test. Tell your child that he/she is special and that you believe in him/her!
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Remind your child that the test is important. Encourage him/her to do his/her best.
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If your child is too ill to attend, please call the school office.
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Explain to your child the importance of using time wisely. If your child gets stuck on a question, encourage him or her to make the best guess and move on.
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Remind your child to listen carefully to the instructions from the teacher and to read the directions and each question carefully.
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Tell your child to attempt to answer all of the questions and not to leave any blank.
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Encourage your child to stay focused on the test, even if other students finish early.
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If your child is disappointed after taking the test, reassure him or her that there will be plenty of opportunities to improve and succeed.