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Exams are just around the corner and now is the time to support your daughter as she begins preparing for her final exams. The following suggestions are offered for your consideration:

• Make sure your daughter has the necessary “learning tools” in place for effective study sessions, including a distraction-free location, computer, index cards, highlighters in different colors, textbooks, etc.
• Help your daughter plan her study schedule and stick with it.
• Be mindful of extra-curricular activities during the exam period. Aim for the right balance between studying, family time, sports and performing arts obligations, and down time.
• Try to be as consistent as possible. Aim for routines and “systems” with which both you and your daughter are comfortable.
• Help your daughter “interact” with her study material. The more engaged she is with the material, the more likely she will be to recall the necessary information on test day.
• Ask your daughter to “teach” you the material. Teaching material to others can significantly improve retention rate and provide an excellent opportunity for self-evaluation. Encourage the use of a white board, study guides, and “mock” tests to enhance the quality of the lesson being presented. As the “student,” be prepared to ask questions. 
• For students who have difficulty getting started or staying focused during a study session, review the goal of that particular study session with them. Keep a water bottle nearby or provide a squishy ball to keep the hands occupied as material is reviewed. Chewing gum helps some stay on task.
• Encourage your child to ask questions and to seek the support of her classroom teacher or the Learning Specialist if she is overwhelmed or confused.
• Help your daughter keep this phase of her school year in perspective. Try to keep stress at a minimum by concentrating on the big picture. Remind your daughter that final exams give her the opportunity to display the study skills she has mastered throughout this school year. 

Please contact me should you have any questions.

Thank you,

Gail Whitley
Middle School Learning Specialist
301-365-6074