Stop the Worry of Standardized Testing

It is that time of year again. Preparations for standardized testing are in full swing. School staff members, parents, and children are all prepping for what some refer to as the "dreaded test". As many parents know, not all children do well with test taking. It can create worry and anxiety in children. Below is a helpful tapping script I created to help relieve the stress/worry associated with standardized test taking. The following tapping script is based on an intervention called the Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) commonly known as tapping. EFT is a meridian based therapy approach with a wide range of applications. It helps connects mind, body & emotions via the body’s energy system. Tapping works by quickly stopping the fight-or-flight response in the amygdala, lowering cortisol levels. It allows the mind and body to clear out negative energetic blocks with the ability to respond from a calmer state. It is quick, easy to learn, and convenient. It often has fast results, can be done anywhere, and by anyone. A parent can just google “what is EFT tapping” to learn how to tap or visit my resource page at http://www.janetgarcialcsw.com/resources for a helpful webpage to get started.

Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) 1) Karate Chop: Even though I don’t think I will do well on the test, I can try to feel calm & confident (Repeat 3x).

Have child rate self on a scale 0-10 Subjective Unit of Distress Scale (SUDS). A 10 indicates the highest level of distress.

2) Eyebrow: I am so worried. 3) Side of Eye: I think I’m going to fail. 4) Under Eye: What if I fail? 5) Under Nose: I’m really worried. 6) Chin: It’s going to be hard. 7) Collarbone: I worry I’ll do badly. 8) Under Arm: Then I may not pass. 9) Top of Head: I’m just so worried about this.

Have child take a deep breath and let it go.

Continue tapping on any negative beliefs to acknowledge them then move forward.

1) Eyebrow: What if I just try my best. 2) Side of Eye: What if I’m being too hard on myself. 3) Under Eye: I can feel calm and confident. 4) Under Nose: What if worrying makes me not do my best. 5) Chin: It’s not as bad as I think. 6) Collarbone: What if I just try my best. 7) Under Arm: I can try to be ready for this. 8) Top of Head: What if I stop worrying and just try my best.

Have child take a deep breath and let it go.

1) Eyebrow: I can feel calm and confident. 2) Side of Eye: I am smart. 3) Under Eye: I can try my best. 4) Under Nose: I’m ready for this. 5) Chin: I have worked hard all year to be ready. 6) Collarbone: I will try my best. 7) Under Arm: I know I can do this. 8) Top of Head: I am calm and confident.