Ah, LEAP testing. That time of year when kids suddenly remember how to spell “photosynthesis” but can’t remember where they left their shoes. As parents, we want our kids to do their best—but we also don’t want them turning into stress-zombies in the process.
So here’s your friendly guide made possible by Children's Coalition for Northeast Louisiana to prepping your child for LEAP testing without accidentally turning your kitchen into a pressure cooker.
Children’s Coalition for Northeast Louisiana isn’t just an organization—it’s a superhero squad, working behind the scenes to make sure kids and families in our community thrive. From early childhood education to parenting resources, teen outreach, mental health support, and everything in between, they’re the folks planting seeds of hope and growth all across Northeast Louisiana. Learn more about their programs, upcoming events, and how you can get involved in creating a stronger, healthier future for our kids—because it really does take a village (and maybe a juice box or two). SUPER SATURDAY IN THE FAMILY GARDEN, MAY 3RD, 2025, 10 AM - 12 PM AT 117 HALL ST., DOWNTOWN MONORE, LA.
🧠 1. Reframe the Test Talk
Instead of making the test sound like a fire-breathing dragon they have to defeat, try describing it like this:
“It’s just a check-in to see how you’re doing—like a pit stop for your brain!”
Assure them it’s not the end-all, be-all of their academic life. The test is important, yes, but it doesn’t define them. They're already superstars in your eyes—test score or not.
😴 2. Prioritize Sleep Like a Pajama-Wearing Ninja
Sleep is non-negotiable. If their brains are fried from Fortnite marathons or late-night cramming, they’ll have the mental stamina of a sleepy sloth.
Start dialing in bedtime a week before testing begins. Think wind-down routines: cozy PJs, a good book, maybe a warm bath. Bonus points for lavender-scented everything.
🍳 3. Fuel 'Em Up—Breakfast-Style
The morning of the test is not the time to experiment with a new kale smoothie recipe. Go for a breakfast that’s hearty, comforting, and won’t make their tummy rumble mid-test.
Think: eggs, toast, fruit, oatmeal… or their personal fave. Keep it familiar and protein-packed. Hangry kids can’t focus.
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📚 4. Practice Calm, Not Panic
Yes, some practice is good—but don’t turn your home into a testing boot camp. Instead of drilling them to exhaustion, try:
- Light review games (Kahoot, flashcards, trivia-style fun)
- A “teach-back” session where they explain concepts to you
- Or even a "test your parents" night (kids love being smarter than you)
🧘 5. Teach Tiny Stress-Busters
Arm them with mini-tools for in-the-moment calm:
- Deep breaths in through the nose, out through the mouth
- Positive mantras like “I’ve got this!” or “I am prepared and calm”
- Quick stretches before heading to school
You can even slip a little encouraging note or doodle in their backpack the morning of—surprise sunshine never hurt anyone!
PARENT GUIDE TO LEAP 2025 TESTS
💬 6. Open the Floor for Feelings
Testing jitters are normal. Let them vent without jumping into “fix it” mode. Just listening—without judgment or solutions—can go a long way.
Try asking:
- “How are you feeling about the test?”
- “What part feels the easiest? The hardest?”
- “What can we do to make you feel more confident?”
Empathy = the real superpower here.
🎉 7. Plan a Post-Test Treat
Give them something to look forward to! Whether it’s a trip to the park, a movie night, or their favorite snack, a little celebration can ease some of that test-day tension and show them that effort deserves recognition—no matter the outcome.
LEAP testing is just one chapter in their school story—not the whole book. Your support, calm energy, and confidence in them will help them walk in with their heads high and their hearts light.
You’ve got this, and so do they. 🧡
Oops, we almost forgot, teachers and students would appreciate sending test week snacks, so look for that sign-up sheet in backpacks!
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