Students who suffer from test anxiety tend to be self-critical youngsters who worry about their futures and their schoolwork, especially doing well on tests. Instead of feeling challenged by the prospect of success, they fear the possibility of failure. Non-stop worry undermines their academic confidence and causes them to doubt their own test-taking abilities.

Fortunately, there are steps parents can take to minimize test-taking stresses. The following suggestions are provided by the U.S. Department of Education:

1. Avoid being overly concerned about your youngsters' schoolwork: Do show interest and offer support. But don't place too much emphasis on their grades.
   
   
2. Encourage children's efforts: Share in their classroom progress. Review homework and class work with them. Boys and girls who feel successful will keep test-taking in perspective.
   
   
3. Don't base learning on a single test score: Tests aren't perfect measures of what kids know. And there can be many different factors affecting test performance. One test is only one test. View education as an overall process.
   
   
4. Have children attend school regularly: The more effort and time youngsters put into learning, the more likely they are to be successful.
   
   
5. Make sure children get plenty of rest: Fresh, energetic boys and girls will outshine their sleepy, lethargic classmates, especially on test days. Maintain a routine evening schedule that allows plenty of time for dinner, homework, nightly reading and proper sleep.
   
   
6. Create a positive morning environment: Do your best to provide a calm, loving household for youngsters before they leave for school. Help them get up in time to dress without rushing. Lay out backpacks, bike helmets and homework assignments the night before. Remember that a nourishing breakfast, an affectionate hug and a whispered "I love you" are the best tools kids take to school.

Linda Lewis Griffith is a marriage and family counselor. Reprinted with permission.