Students today are feeling it– the pressure to perform on standardized tests. Even when teachers do their best to prepare students, provide encouraging words, and create a relaxed atmosphere, our students find themselves in an over-anxious generation, surrounded by stimulation and the inability to regulate their emotions. Their young bodies are on nervous system overdrive, and as educators, we can offer them more than just calming words this testing season.

There are real resources available for schools and classrooms to help teachers and students address the mental health challenges that surround test anxiety.

If you need quick, calming strategies for your classroom, try these:

  • Normalize the Feeling
    Let students know that feeling nervous is normal. Remind them that anxiety doesn’t mean they aren’t prepared — it just means they care.
  • Teach Quick Breathing Strategies
    Practice short calming techniques like slow breathing before testing begins. Even two or three deep breaths can help reset focus.
  • Encourage Positive Self-Talk
    Teach students simple phrases such as, “I can start with what I know,” or “I’ve practiced this skill.” Confidence grows from strategy and preparation.
  • Maintain Calm, Predictable Routines
    A steady classroom environment helps students feel secure. Keep review structured, supportive, and focused on growth.

Beyond these strategies, GPB and PBS LearningMedia offer practical resources and educator support materials to help address student anxiety.

 

Stressin’ Out | Spot On Science | Video

Stressing out over an upcoming test or a big game at school? Child psychologist Lisa Ramirez explains how stress can actually be a good thing and what to do when it turns toxic.

 

Compass for Courage | Collection

COMPASS for Courage is a gamified toolkit to strengthen coping skills in students struggling with anxiety, worries, fear, or stress. COMPASS uses collaborative game-based learning to teach youth research-backed strategies to manage worries, solve problems, build relationships, and face stressful situations with confidence.

 

Belly Breathe | Sesame Street | Video

Colbie Caillat and Common team up with Elmo to help you calm down when you're feeling mad or sad. Use this tune to exercise the belly breathing strategy for keeping calm.

 

Finding Your Center | Teachable Moments | Video

Being thoughtful can help us find peace when we are feeling stressed or overwhelmed. Felicia Savage Friedman of Yoga Roots on Location teaches us a simple concentration exercise that we can practice whenever we are feeling these emotions.

 

Healthy Minds, Thriving Kids | Collection

These middle school and high school-appropriate videos feature an engaging host and interviews with a diverse group of real kids. They teach key skills while normalizing the challenges kids face and sparking productive conversations.

 

Resiliency: One Step At A Time | Hope Givers | Video

We meet Brandon Todd, a fashion designer in rural America who understands the value of mental health. While Brandon was creating his fashion line, MIND, to bring mental health awareness into the spotlight, a tragic car accident forced Brandon to have his leg amputated. In this episode, we learn about the power of resiliency and the importance of setting goals.

 

Need more? Check out this GPB resource guide for helping students conquer test anxiety.

Remind your students (and yourself)-- you’ve got this!