The PSAT can feel like a big milestone, not just for students but also for parents. As your child prepares for the test, you may be wondering how to best support them without adding to their stress. The truth is, your involvement can make a significant difference in both their preparation and their mindset on test day.
Now that it’s my daughter’s second time around, I’m sharing five practical ways you can help your child feel prepared and confident. Plus, we’ve included free practice test links to give your child an extra boost before test day!
1. Encourage a Positive Mindset
A key part of test success is helping your child approach the PSAT with the right attitude. Many students feel pressure to perform perfectly, but the PSAT is ultimately a practice test. Remind your child that this test is just one step in their journey and that the most important thing is putting in their best effort.
How You Can Help:
• Encourage them to focus on doing their best, rather than aiming for a specific score.
• Talk about how the PSAT is a learning experience, helping them practice for future tests like the SAT.
2. Create a Calm, Supportive Environment
The night before the test can be a stressful. Help ease their nerves by creating a peaceful environment at home. Make sure they have everything they need—like pencils, a calculator, and snacks—ready to go the night before, so there’s no last-minute scrambling.
How You Can Help:
• Encourage your child to get a good night’s sleep. A well-rested brain will help them think more clearly on test day.
• Offer to pack a healthy snack for them to take to the test center, like a granola bar or fruit, to keep their energy levels up.
3. Provide Free Practice Test Resources
One of the best ways to reduce test anxiety is by practicing ahead of time. Familiarity with the test format and timing can make a huge difference in your child’s confidence on test day. By taking free practice tests, your child can identify areas they need to work on and improve their pacing.
Free Practice Test Resources:
• Khan Academy: PSAT Practice Tests
• College Board: Free Practice PSAT
Encourage your child to take practice tests under timed conditions to simulate the real test experience. Afterward, help them review any mistakes and figure out what areas need extra attention.
4. Be Present, But Don’t Overwhelm
While it’s important to check in with your child about how they’re feeling, be mindful of not adding too much pressure. Your role as a supportive, calm presence can ease some of the stress they might be feeling.
How You Can Help:
• Ask how they’re feeling about the test, but avoid too many probing questions. You already know they’ll shit down quick.
• Let them know that you’re there if they need to talk, or help, but give them space to relax on their own terms.
A calm conversation about how they’re feeling will go a long way in reducing test anxiety. Sometimes, just knowing someone is there for them is enough.
5. Fuel Them with Energy
On test day, make sure your child eats a healthy, balanced breakfast that will give them energy without weighing them down. Avoid sugary foods that can cause a mid-morning crash. Instead, focus on meals rich in protein and whole grains, which will help keep their energy steady throughout the test.
Breakfast Ideas:
• Eggs and whole-grain toast
• Oatmeal with fruit and nuts
• Greek yogurt with granola and berries
Also, encourage them to take a water bottle to stay hydrated, which will help them stay focused during the test.
Final Words of Encouragement for Parents:
Your child has been working hard, and with your support, they’re more prepared than they realize. Whether they score exactly as they hope or use this as a learning experience for future tests, remind them that this is just one step on their path to success.
By providing a calm environment, practice resources, and a positive mindset, you’re giving them everything they need to do their best. And remember—your support means the world to them!
Share this post with other parents who could use these tips and help all of our kids succeed on test day!
Free Practice Test Resources: