If you have a child who worries about upcoming tests, gets tummy aches the evening before or the morning of a test, or performs significantly lower on tests compared with homework and other schoolwork, you might want to consider test anxiety as a cause. The best antidote for test anxiety is to be thoroughly prepared for the exam, and top it off with a good night's sleep. Last-minute cramming for a test can increase anxiety. Sometimes parents put undue pressure on children to succeed, thus causing test and performance anxiety. Thanks to the teacher below, who has some clever ideas on this subject.

TEACHER HAS TIPS FOR TEST ANXIETY

Teachers in elementary schools often overlook the toll that anxiety takes on their pupils, especially during tests. In my class, I teach the children how to relax before a test. Five minutes before a test, I have them do some deep breathing (take a deep breath through their nose, hold it for a count of two, then blow it slowly out through their mouth). I show them how to tense their shoulder and neck muscles, hold it for a count of five, and then relax. I also ask them to drop their hands to their side, clench their fists tightly, hold it for a count of five and then relax. Finally, I ask them to close their eyes and visualize themselves doing very well on the test. (This takes some practice for young children.) After I hand out the tests, I encourage them to focus only on the test questions and ignore everything else. These not only are skills that can help them improve their test scores, but they're lifelong strategies that can help them control anxiety in their lives. — T.L., San Diego

"I DRESSED MYSELF" BUTTON

Make a button/pin for your toddlers or preschoolers that says, "I dressed myself today." They get to wear it on the days that they do so. Kids will get praise all day long, even from strangers. — Kim V.G., Cary, N.C.

BETTER IDEA FOR SCHOOL LUNCH MONEY

I am writing in reply to last week's Kid Tip about keeping extra lunch money in a student's backpack. As a "lunch lady" at an elementary school, it is heartbreaking to see students' disappointment when they realize they do not have enough money for lunch. Sometimes they cry or walk away quickly to hide their tears. Please spread the word that many school districts now offer an opportunity to prepay for lunches. That would alleviate this problem for all concerned. — Monica Mitchell, Livermore, Calif.

A LOW BATHROOM MIRROR

Install a small mirror below the medicine cabinet so little ones can use it when brushing their teeth and combing their hair. — C.M., York, Pa.

Note: One small mirror tile (available in most hardware stores for $3) can be used for this. It can be mounted on the wall with mounting-tape squares (if appropriate for the wall surface) at your child's eye level. (T.M.)

(Always keep safety, age appropriateness and your intimate knowledge of your own child in mind when considering use of any tip.)