Managing your child’s foreign language anxiety for test-taking
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EmailStrategies for helping your child prepare for and feel more confident taking exams.
Most of us have some form of anxiety when speaking a second language. Generally, parents can identify foreign language anxiety when a child talks in their native language. When it comes to English as a second language, children may face difficulty preparing for tests written in English. Identifying and helping your child manage these feelings can make them more confident and score better on their tests.
Below are some helpful tips to help you manage your child’s foreign language anxiety for taking tests in English.
Ask your child why they are nervous and boost their confidence.
Words of encouragement and other confidence-boosting techniques can make your child feel more prepared for their test. It is important to ask your child why they are nervous. Their answer will tell you the best way to prepare them for their test. For example, if your child answers that they know the lesson material but feel unprepared for a test in their second language, you can help them by focusing more on their English language instructions and vocabulary. If their answer relates to a fear of being grounded and/ or disapproval from you, assure them that you are proud of them for their efforts and will not be angry if they fail to receive a great score.
Teach your child to practice calming strategies before and during the test.
There are a range of calming strategies that your child can utilize before and during their test. Weeks before test day, it is recommended to sit down with your child and help them create a study plan to prepare for their test. It is important to not only review the test material, but also the English vocabulary that may appear in the instructions. The day before test day, make sure that your child avoids caffeine and gets sufficient sleep. During their test, your child can use mindfulness techniques to reduce their anxiety. Anxiety is characterized as racing thoughts and fears about the future. By using mindfulness techniques such as mindfulness meditation, your child will be able to reduce their anxiety and better focus on their test.
Speak with your child’s teacher.
The more a teacher knows about your child’s language proficiency, the easier it will be for them to assist your child. It is also important to let their teacher know if your child is uncomfortable speaking English in front of others. Forcing them to speak in front of their peers can make their foreign language anxiety worse. When it comes to testing, parent-teacher communication is key. If your child’s teacher is aware of your child’s foreign language anxiety, they may be able to develop a system with your child and allow them some flexibility when it comes to tests.
Know when to ask for more support.
Foreign language anxiety is situation-specific and therefore can affect individuals who are not normally anxious. If your child is anxious when speaking their native language and in other settings, consult with a therapist. If problems with your child’s schoolwork persist, it is best to explore an Individualized Education Program (IEP).
Taking a test in a foreign language can bring anxiety. By talking to your child and helping them prepare, your child will feel more prepared for future exams. Over time, their anxiety may dissipate altogether as they grow increasingly comfortable taking tests in an English environment.
To learn more about emotional wellness and mindfulness based strategies, please visit Michigan State University Extension’s Mindfulness for Better Living page.
