Welcome back, SuperTeachers!
In Part 1, we unpacked why test anxiety happens and how it can negatively impact student performance. Now, let’s focus on what you can do about it.
Teaching students how to self-regulate during test season is just as important as teaching the test content itself.
A calm, confident student will always perform better than an anxious one.
Here’s how you can help:
Step 1: Normalize & Reframe Test Anxiety
Acknowledge it. Let students know it’s normal to feel nervous and that even adults experience test anxiety.
Use a Feelings Wheel. Have students name their emotions—naming emotions reduces their intensity.
Reframe the test. Instead of “This is a big, important test,” say, “This is just a chance to show what you know.”
Step 2: Teach & Practice Self-Regulation Strategies
Square Breathing: Inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4, exhale for 4, hold for 4—repeat.
Mental Rehearsal (Visualization): Have students close their eyes and imagine themselves calmly working through the test.
"I Am" Affirmations: Encourage students to say:“I am prepared.”“I am focused.”“I am in control of my thoughts.”
Step 3: Set Up the Testing Environment for Success
Pre-Test Rituals: Start the test with deep breathing, a quick stretch, and a positive message.
Silent Encouragement: Circulate the room and give a reassuring nod or place a motivational sticky note on a student’s desk.
Mini Brain Breaks: If a student looks overwhelmed, subtly encourage a deep breath or stretch to reset focus.
Step 4: Make It a School-Wide Effort
Your students may take tests in rooms with different teachers.
Share these strategies with colleagues so all testing environments are supportive and consistent.
Let’s change the way students experience high-stakes testing. Instead of seeing it as something to fear, let’s empower them with tools to stay regulated, confident, and in control.
Which of these strategies will you try? Do you have other go-to techniques? Let’s build a resource list together—drop your ideas in the comments!
(Share this post with your colleagues so we can create a test-ready, stress-free school culture!)
Need more support?
Let’s talk!
Every classroom is different, and sometimes you just need a thought partner to figure out what works best for you and your students. If you’d like to dive deeper into instructional strategies, student engagement, or just need a fresh perspective, schedule a coaching call! No pressure—just real talk and actionable steps to help you thrive.
Schedule a time that works for you here: Scheduling Link
Looking forward to connecting!
~ Dr. O
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