Understanding test prep behaviors and study habits

Key Takeaways

Audience Spotlight: Understanding Neurodivergent Learners and Test Prep

For parents of neurodivergent children in elementary school, understanding test prep behaviors and study habits is especially important. Neurodivergent learners, such as those with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, or dyslexia, may approach studying and test preparation differently than their peers. Their unique learning styles, sensory experiences, and attention needs can affect how they prepare for assessments. By recognizing and supporting these differences, parents can help their children feel successful and confident when facing tests.

What Are Test Prep Behaviors and Study Habits?

Test prep behaviors are the actions and routines students use to get ready for quizzes, tests, and standardized assessments. Study habits refer to the regular patterns of practice a child follows when learning new material or reviewing what they have already learned. Both are important for academic growth, especially for neurodivergent learners who may need extra support to develop routines that work for them.

Why Do Some Kids Struggle with Test Prep?

Many parents notice their child avoids studying, rushes through assignments, or becomes anxious before big tests. This can be even more common for neurodivergent learners. Experts in child development note that executive function skills—such as planning, organizing, and staying focused—are still growing during elementary school years. Neurodivergent children may find these skills especially challenging, which can make test prep feel overwhelming or frustrating.

Many teachers and parents report that children sometimes shut down, procrastinate, or become upset when faced with studying. These behaviors are not a sign of laziness or lack of effort. Instead, they often signal that a child needs help building strategies that match their unique learning style.

Common Emotional Barriers for Neurodivergent Students

• Anxiety: Worry about making mistakes or forgetting information can lead to test anxiety.
• Overwhelm: Large tasks feel impossible, so your child might avoid starting altogether.
• Low confidence: Past struggles may affect how your child feels about their ability to succeed.
• Sensory sensitivity: Noisy or bright environments can distract or upset some learners.

Normalizing these experiences and talking openly about them helps your child know they are not alone.

Test Prep Strategies for Students: Practical Approaches

Every child is different, but there are test prep strategies for students that work well for many neurodivergent learners in elementary school.

• Break it down: Help your child divide big assignments into smaller, manageable steps. For example, focus on reviewing just one chapter or vocabulary list at a time.
• Use checklists: Visual reminders can help your child remember what to study and track their progress. Let them check off tasks as they complete them.
• Set a routine: Choose a consistent time and quiet place for studying. Short, regular sessions often work better than long, infrequent ones.
• Offer choice: Let your child choose which subject to study first or how to review (flashcards, drawing, talking it out). This builds buy-in and motivation.
• Incorporate movement: For learners who need to move, use study breaks, standing desks, or fidget tools to help them focus.

Remember, you know your child best. Try different approaches and celebrate what works, even if it looks different from what other families do.

How Do Study Habits Change in Elementary School?

During elementary school, children are just beginning to develop consistent study habits. They may need reminders and lots of encouragement. For neurodivergent learners, progress may be gradual. That is completely normal. Some children will learn best through hands-on activities, while others prefer talking through ideas or using visuals.

As your child moves from K-2 to grades 3-5, expectations for independent work increase. This is a good time to practice skills like organizing materials, following schedules, and managing test anxiety. Encourage your child to use tools that support their needs, such as timers, color-coded folders, or noise-canceling headphones.

Grade Band Focus: Elementary School Test Prep Strategies

Supporting test prep in elementary school sets the stage for lifelong learning. Here are some age-appropriate strategies for younger learners:

• Read directions together: Help your child understand what is being asked on homework or practice tests.
• Practice with sample questions: Use examples from class or teacher-provided resources to build familiarity and confidence.
• Use positive reinforcement: Celebrate effort, not just correct answers. Stickers, praise, or extra playtime are great motivators.
• Keep sessions short: For early grades, 10-15 minutes is often enough. Take breaks and return later if needed.

For more resources on developing strong study habits, you can visit our study habits resource page.

Parent Question: How Can I Help When My Child Refuses to Study?

It is common for parents to feel frustrated when a child resists test prep. Here are some supportive steps:

• Start with empathy. Acknowledge that studying can feel tough or boring.
• Ask open-ended questions: “What part feels hardest right now?” or “What would make this easier?”
• Offer choices and control. Let your child pick the order of subjects or the time of day for studying.
• Use creative tools like games, drawing, or movement to make review time engaging.
• Break tasks into smaller parts and celebrate each step forward.

If resistance continues, talk with your child’s teacher or a learning specialist. Together, you can develop a plan that respects your child’s needs and strengths.

Common Mistakes Parents Make—and How to Avoid Them

• Assuming one-size-fits-all: Each learner is unique. What works for one child may not help another.
• Focusing only on grades: Progress is about growth and effort, not just scores.
• Pushing too hard: Too much pressure can increase anxiety. Encourage balance and self-care.
• Overlooking sensory needs: Adjust lighting, noise, or seating to support comfort and focus.

Remember, your support and encouragement are powerful tools for your child’s success.

Definitions

Test prep behaviors: The actions and routines a student uses to get ready for tests, such as reviewing notes, practicing sample questions, or organizing materials.

Study habits: The regular patterns or routines a child follows when learning or reviewing academic material, including when, where, and how they study.

Related Resources

• Effective Study Strategies for Exams
• Best Test-Taking Strategies and Tips for Kids and Teens
• Help Your Child Prepare for Standardized Tests – Scholastic

Tutoring Support

K12 Tutoring partners with families to help every child build effective study habits and test prep strategies. Our tutors understand the diverse needs of neurodivergent learners and offer customized support for each student’s unique strengths. Whether your child needs help breaking down assignments, managing test anxiety, or developing routines, we are here to help you and your child succeed together.

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].