Coaching for Confidence: 3 strategies to support students through testing season, and beyond

‘Tis the season for NCAA basketball, but this quarter is about more than just buzzer-beaters and championship dreams—it’s also crunch time for K-12 students facing high-stakes state testing. 

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Given that at least 10-40 percent of students struggle with exam-related anxiety, developing the skills to navigate these and other high pressure situations can be just as vital as the test itself.

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Similar to coaches, teachers, administrators and parents can help devise a game plan that calms students’ nerves, builds confidence, and supports their strongest performance.

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Ready to turn state test stress into success? Let’s run through three strategies to roll out in your school this spring.

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1) Stress Relief Spaces

Designated areas for students to decompress are not exactly new, but they’ve become more mainstream in the post-pandemic era. Zen dens, calming corners, wellness centers, peace rooms—regardless of what you call them, these spaces are a “really powerful” way for students to take a timeout and reset their emotions, said author and former educator of 25 years, Robert Dillon, in an article published in The74.

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“We are in a noisy society — mentally noisy, emotionally noisy — and I think these calming spaces are pushing back against the everyday tech noise,” Dillon said. 

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To make these areas as cost-effective, space-efficient, and simple-to-supervise as possible, here’s an example of the six-piece kit used by schools in Kern County, California. 

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Every district is different in terms of resources for a project like this, but with a bit of educator creativity, stress relief spaces are a feasible way to manage high anxiety before the big test.

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2) Words of Encouragement

A little note goes a long way, and when it comes to battling exam anxiety, positive reinforcement is always a good idea. 

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This may be especially true for students who struggle with learning issues or general anxiety beyond just testing, said a Child Mind Institute article featuring Matt Cruger, PhD, one of their clinical psychologists.

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“What I have seen when I work with kids who have test anxiety is they tend to say, ‘I’m so stupid’. That can’t be a helpful mindset to have when taking tests,” Cruger explained. “...I’m really trying to rehabilitate kids’ sense of themselves as competent learners.”

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One way to raise students’ confidence and composure during testing season is through the power of words. A little note can go such a long way. In the interest of teachers’ precious time, there are tons of Teachers Pay Teachers templates to jumpstart the process. 

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Alternatively, this template’s student-centered approach allows classmates to compose the messages for each other, which is a great way to build culture and connection before, during, and after state exam season. Teachers can also select from a range of templates that enable students to practice positive self-affirmations, and focus on their capabilities.

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No matter who writes the pick-me-up note, students will surely appreciate the gesture of a much-needed confidence boost before the big test.

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3) Meditation & Music

Welcoming mindfulness into classrooms during state testing season can be another powerful tool to improve student well-being and academic success in an otherwise stressful environment.

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Based on the millions of children increasingly diagnosed with mental health issues like attention deficit disorder, anxiety, behavior problems, and depression, there has never been a more important time to give them tools to manage these challenges. 

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Based on numerous studies and data out of the University of San Diego, mindfulness is one of the most beneficial, proactive way to manage these issues.

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“By having an awareness of their body, thoughts, and surroundings,” USD researchers said, “students learn to calm themselves and reduce the larger impacts of stress.”

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These skills, along with good behavior, focus, memory, and decision-making, are all improved through meditation, and they’re especially crucial to tackling a tough exam. 

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If educators are new to mindfulness and need light, low-lift activities to get started, there are several easy pathways to explore on YouTube, Vimeo, the Calm app, or even Spotify.

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“This honestly has been life changing for me personally and for me professionally,” gushed a California Teachers Association member. “...I use the Calm app every day in my class for mindfulness meditation time with my students after their longer recesses when they are very dysregulated and emotional.”

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The Final Buzzer: Finish strong on exam day

Experiencing some anxiety about state testing is inevitable, but like NCAA basketball players, achievement depends on preparation, perseverance, and a positive mindset. 

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However, not every exam moment will be a slam dunk, so it’s equally important for educators to prepare students for some setbacks, acknowledge hard work regardless of the outcome, and provide opportunities for reflection.

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Ultimately, this mentality should be harnessed well beyond exam season. In fact, learning to process emotions, manage stress, and develop a growth mindset are all key to students becoming truly future-ready. State testing is just one academic opportunity to practice these invaluable skills, but similar to sports, the real world rewards those who focus on the big picture to succeed in the long-run.

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As educators, hopefully you feel inspired to implement these strategies in your school starting this spring so students feel better equipped to tackle test-day nerves, and whatever other obstacles life throws in their way. Wishing you and them all the best of luck!

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