On Wednesday 11 March, thousands of students across Australia began sitting the annual NAPLAN test, the annual assessment measuring students’ reading, writing, spelling, grammar and numeracy skills in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9.
While the assessment gives schools, parents and governments with a snapshot of student achievement and learning progress, research shows that it is also a source of significant anxiety and stress for young people.
Experts are cautioning that some parents and carers may be noticing changes in their child’s behaviour or signs of worry, saying now is a good time for them to help children feel calm, steady, and supported ahead of test week.
One initiative helping families achieve this is the Triple P – Positive Parenting Program, one of the most effective evidence-based parenting programs in the world.
Backed up by more than 35 years of ongoing research, Triple P gives parents simple and practical strategies to help them build strong, healthy relationships, confidently manage their children’s behavior and prevent problems developing.
Triple P International Country Director, Carol Markie-Dadds, said that it’s common to feel apprehensive or anxious when it comes to tests.
“Many children understand they’re being evaluated, that there’s a time limit for the test, and that they want to do their best. The good news is that with the right guidance, children can learn to handle those tricky feelings and build confidence over time,” Markie-Dadds said.
“Tests are a normal part of life, and some anxiety is expected. Younger children may need more support during this time to develop their coping skills, and as they grow, parents can guide them toward more independence, helping build their life skills and resilience.”
Research shows that when parents and carers have a calm, consistent response to anxiety, it can strongly influence how their family handles challenging situations.
“Every family wants the best for their young learner, but parents and carers can unintentionally add to their child’s unease by over-talking a test or assuming they feel nervous,” Markie Dadds said.
“Even subtle reassurances like squeezing their hand as you enter the classroom can send the message that there’s something to fear.”
A few small, everyday strategies can make a big difference to test time worries and build stronger family connections.
Triple P’s tips for navigating NAPLAN nerves
• Highlight tests as just one part of learning. When adults are calm and positive, children often follow their lead. Modelling reassurance helps to view tests as a normal learning experience, not something to dread.
• Use everyday moments for a quick check-in. A relaxed chat in the car, at bedtime, or over a meal can help children put feelings into words. When kids feel heard and understood, it strengthens their sense of security and emotional wellbeing.
• Explore small ways to settle nerves. Let children know that any concerns can be positively managed, and together, come up with some solutions. This might include slow breathing, listening to music, or reading to help relax.
“Once the testing is done, ask children how they felt during the test. What coping strategies did they use?” Markie-Dadds said, adding that it is important to praise children for their effort rather than the result.
“The most powerful message we can give our young people is that a test does not define their worth and that their wellbeing matters most.”