Planning to send your child to a prestigious private school? These schools offer great education and are a big step to entering an equally prestigious college. Here are some tips for helping him prepare for the entrance exam, without adding too much undue pressure.
Start early
Inquire with the School Registrar, or else get a jump on the application process by visiting the school website. Some schools have implemented an online application process to make things easier.
Ask about the test format
Will it be administered one-on-one? Will your child be with other students? How long will it last? Will the teacher assist your child if necessary? Does she need to bring her own school supplies? The school registrar can provide this information but by far your best sources are friends with kids in the same school. They can tell you if the test was multiple choice or involved timed puzzles or an interview. But many parents acknowledge that as soon as your child’s name is called, the testing has already begun. Based on her willingness to go and follow, the teacher is at that point assessing emotional readiness.
Prepping your child
Days before testing, start your child on an early bedtime routine, so that he gets the proper amount of rest and wakes up bright and alert. Make sure she has a good breakfast and uses the lavatory before leaving the house.
Don’t make the mistake of drilling your child, which will only stress him out. Focus on easing his jitters and test anxiety so that he doesn’t get a mental block. Tell him what he can expect, and arrive at the school earlier than scheduled, so he can observe other students coming in and out of the exam room and has a chance to get used to the surroundings. Pack a light snack and drink so he lasts through the test without feeling hungry.
Photo from timesofmalta.com
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