Tools to boost recall and planning for high school

Key Takeaways

Audience Spotlight: Neurodivergent Learners and Test Prep

For parents of neurodivergent children, preparing for tests can feel uniquely challenging. Many neurodivergent learners (such as those with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, or learning differences) may face barriers to traditional study routines. It is important to remember that your child’s struggles with test preparation are not unusual. With understanding, patience, and tailored strategies, these obstacles can become opportunities for growth.

What Are the Mistakes That Hold Back Strong Test Prep Skills?

The phrase mistakes that hold back strong test prep skills refers to common patterns, habits, or misunderstandings that make test preparation harder than it needs to be. For neurodivergent elementary school students, these mistakes can show up in different ways, including procrastination, lack of structure, or feeling overwhelmed by the materials. Recognizing and addressing these mistakes early helps your child develop positive study experiences and build lifelong confidence.

Understanding Test Prep Strategies for Elementary School Learners

Test prep strategies in the elementary years lay the foundation for all future academic success. Experts in child development note that strong test prep skills are not just about memorizing facts, but about building routines and emotional resilience. Many teachers and parents report that young children benefit most from routines that are predictable, flexible, and visually supported. Mistakes that hold back strong test prep skills often start with mismatched strategies for a child’s learning style or needs.

Common Mistakes That Hold Back Strong Test Prep Skills

• Procrastination and avoidance: Neurodivergent students may put off studying because tasks feel overwhelming or unclear. Waiting until the last minute can increase anxiety and reduce retention.
• Lack of a consistent routine: Without a set study schedule, children may forget assignments or feel scattered. This is especially true for students who benefit from structure and visual reminders.
• Ignoring emotional needs: Test anxiety, frustration, or low motivation are real barriers. Dismissing these feelings can make studying more stressful for everyone.
• Trying to “cram” all at once: Short, frequent study sessions are more effective for most learners. Extended sessions can lead to fatigue and lower focus, especially for those with attention challenges.
• Not using supports or accommodations: Many neurodivergent children have IEP or 504 Plan accommodations. Skipping these supports during test prep can hold back progress and confidence.
• Overemphasizing grades over learning: When the focus is only on scores, children may miss the chance to develop lifelong learning habits and self-advocacy skills.

Parent Question: How Can I Tell If My Child Is Struggling with Test Prep?

You might notice your child becomes frustrated, avoids starting assignments, or worries about upcoming tests. They may forget study materials, struggle to focus, or have trouble recalling what they studied. These are all signs of mistakes that hold back strong test prep skills, especially for neurodivergent learners who benefit from explicit support.

Study Habits and Test Prep Challenges for Students

Developing positive study habits is one of the best ways to address test prep challenges for students. For neurodivergent children, this often means making routines visible and concrete. For example, using color-coded calendars, checklists, or timers can help break down big tasks into smaller, manageable steps. Many parents find that building in breaks and using movement or sensory tools during study time increases both focus and motivation.

• Tip: Try a “study sandwich” approach: start and end with a favorite activity, with a focused study session in between. This helps motivate children to begin and rewards them for finishing.

Grade Band Focus: Elementary School Test Prep Strategies

In elementary school, test prep should feel supportive and low-pressure. Here are some strategies tailored for young neurodivergent learners:

• Create a visual study plan: Use pictures, sticky notes, or a whiteboard calendar to map out when and what to study.
• Break tasks into steps: Instead of “study for the math test,” try “review flashcards for 10 minutes, then solve three practice problems.”
• Use movement and sensory breaks: Jumping jacks, stretching, or fidget tools can help release energy and reset focus.
• Practice with sample questions: Use old worksheets or teacher-provided practice tests so children know what to expect.
• Celebrate effort, not just results: Praise your child for sticking with their plan, asking for help, or using their accommodations.

Emotional Barriers: Addressing Anxiety and Motivation

It’s normal for children (and parents) to feel anxious about tests. For neurodivergent learners, worries may be magnified by past struggles or fear of making mistakes. Experts in education recommend helping your child name their feelings and create a plan for when stress shows up. For example: “If I get stuck, I will take three deep breaths and ask for help.” Building in small wins and consistent encouragement can transform test prep from a source of stress into a chance to build resilience.

Coaching Tips: Supporting Your Child Through Mistakes

• Model self-compassion: Share your own experiences with making mistakes and trying again. Let your child know that learning is a process.
• Use positive language: Instead of “You never study,” try “Let’s find a way to make this easier together.”
• Encourage self-advocacy: If your child has accommodations, help them practice asking for what they need. This is a lifelong skill.
• Stay connected with teachers: Regular check-ins help everyone stay on the same page about upcoming tests and supports.

For additional support, explore our resources on study habits for more tips and printable tools.

Definitions

Neurodivergent: Refers to individuals whose brains process information differently, such as those with ADHD, autism, dyslexia, or other learning differences.

Test prep: The process of preparing for exams or quizzes, including reviewing material, practicing questions, and developing study skills.

Tutoring Support

K12 Tutoring understands that every learner is different. Our tutors partner with families to develop customized strategies, build confidence, and transform mistakes that hold back strong test prep skills into stepping stones for success. If you are looking for guidance tailored to your child’s needs, we are here to help.

Related Resources

• How to Help Your Child Prepare for Standardized Tests – Reading Rockets
• Effective Study Strategies for Exams
• Test Taking Strategies to Help Your Child Ace Their Next Exam – Enroll Basis

Trust & Transparency Statement

Last reviewed: October 2025
This article was prepared by the K12 Tutoring education team, dedicated to helping students succeed with personalized learning support and expert guidance. K12 Tutoring content is reviewed periodically by education specialists to reflect current best practices and family feedback. Have ideas or success stories to share? Email us at [email protected].