Prior to using this Quick Discussion Guide, you and your child may want to do any or all of the following activities on "It's My Life":

• Read the "Test Stress" article

• Work together to come up with a "You Said It" submission for this topic.

• Print out the IML Journal Page "Test Stress." Complete it together or encourage your child to complete it on his/her own.

Discussion Questions:

• Do you ever feel nervous or stressed out about tests at school?

• Do you think that I add to this stress by expecting you to earn good grades?

• How can I encourage you to do your best without adding to your stress levels?

• Do you want to talk to your teacher or school counselor about test stress? Do you want me to be involved with the discussion?

• Do you feel like you have enough time to study? Do you think your studying habits are working? If not, how can I help?

• Do you want to plan something fun to do for after a test is over?

Remember:
--Many children who excel in normal schoolwork experience stress when it comes to testing, but may not want to show it. Look for symptoms of stress (discussed in the article) and encourage your child to talk about his or her emotions.

--Many kids need help and encouragement to study hard and do well on tests. But encouragement is different from pressure; be aware that your expectations can have a serious effect on the amount of stress your child feels.

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