NAPLAN can trigger mixed feelings for parents. On one hand, you want your child to feel supported and prepared; on the other, you may have concerns about the pressure it places on students or question its relevance. These are valid thoughts, and it’s not uncommon to hear criticisms of the testing system. However, preparing for NAPLAN doesn’t have to be a stressful experience—it can be an opportunity to strengthen foundational skills, build confidence, and teach your child valuable strategies for navigating challenges.
This year, students in Years 3, 5, 7, and 9 will sit the NAPLAN tests anytime between the 12th to the 25th of March. Understanding the test’s timing and purpose can help you plan effectively and support your child in the lead-up to these assessments. It’s also helpful to put NAPLAN into perspective. Tests and assessments are a part of every student’s life, both during school and beyond. From class tests to university entrance exams and workplace evaluations, learning how to approach assessments with confidence is a vital life skill. NAPLAN is just one of many opportunities to help your child develop these skills.
Let’s explore why preparation matters, how to address concerns, and practical steps to ensure your child feels supported throughout the process.
Understanding NAPLAN’s Purpose
At its core, NAPLAN is designed to assess essential skills in literacy and numeracy. These are the building blocks of learning, and NAPLAN provides insights into a student’s progress in these areas. It also helps schools identify areas for improvement and tailor their teaching approaches. That said, many parents and educators raise valid concerns about the pressure NAPLAN can place on students and whether it truly reflects a child’s capabilities. While it’s important to acknowledge these critiques, it’s equally valuable to focus on how we can help students approach the test with confidence and resilience, turning it into a positive learning experience.
Why Preparing for NAPLAN Matters
1. Reducing Test Anxiety
For many students, the unknown can be a source of stress. Familiarising your child with the types of questions and test format can help alleviate anxiety, giving them a sense of control and readiness.
2. Building Confidence
When a student feels prepared, they’re more likely to approach the test with confidence. Preparation allows them to recognise their strengths and tackle challenges with a positive mindset.
3. Reinforcing Foundational Skills
NAPLAN preparation often involves revisiting key literacy and numeracy concepts. This reinforcement not only benefits students during the test but also strengthens their everyday academic abilities.
4. Practising Time Management
Timed assessments can be challenging, but practising under similar conditions helps students develop strategies to pace themselves effectively and complete tasks within the given timeframe.
5. Identifying Areas for Growth
Preparation is an opportunity to uncover areas where your child might need extra support. Addressing these gaps early can make a significant difference in their overall learning journey.
Acknowledging Criticisms of NAPLAN
Many parents and teachers express concerns about NAPLAN, including:
- The pressure it places on students.
- Its role in school rankings, which can overshadow individual learning needs.
- Questions about whether it accurately reflects a student’s abilities or potential.
These criticisms are important to consider. However, NAPLAN also provides an opportunity to teach students how to approach challenges with a calm and prepared mindset. By focusing on preparation as a skill-building exercise rather than a high-stakes test, you can help your child navigate the experience with confidence.
How to Support Your Child in Preparing for NAPLAN
1. Adopt a Balanced Approach
Remind your child that NAPLAN is just one part of their learning journey. Focus on effort and progress rather than results, and encourage a growth mindset.
2. Incorporate Practice Gradually
Introduce NAPLAN-style questions in small, manageable sessions. This allows your child to become familiar with the format without feeling overwhelmed.
3. Communicate Openly
Talk to your child about their feelings regarding NAPLAN. Address any concerns they have and reassure them that it’s okay to feel nervous. Let them know they have your support every step of the way.
4. Collaborate with Teachers
Your child’s teacher can provide valuable insights into their progress and areas to focus on. Don’t hesitate to ask for advice or resources to support your child’s preparation.
Looking Beyond the Test
At the end of the day, NAPLAN is just one snapshot of your child’s educational journey. It doesn’t define their potential or future success. By focusing on preparation in a supportive and balanced way, you can help your child approach NAPLAN with confidence, knowing they have the skills and resilience to succeed.
Optimise Learning is offering a range of NAPLAN practice sessions, which provide students with the opportunity to complete past test questions and practise answering the types of questions they will encounter during NAPLAN. In these sessions, students will also learn strategies to help them navigate different question types effectively. By giving your child this opportunity, you’re equipping them with the skills and confidence to approach NAPLAN with an advantage—not just for the test, but for their broader educational journey.
Email us at [email protected] to learn more about our ‘Prepare for 2025 NAPLAN’ sessions.
TRACEY HAND | CO-FOUNDER