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Standardized testing was designed to provide a consistent way to measure students’ knowledge and abilities, ensuring that all learners are evaluated using the same criteria. It became even more common with the introduction of the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) in 2002, which linked school funding to student performance on these tests. The goal was to track educational progress, identify learning gaps, and hold schools accountable for student success. However, over time, concerns have grown about whether these tests are fair and effective, especially for students with learning differences like dyslexia. Standardized tests are not an effective way to assess the development or comprehension of someone with dyslexia.

Test anxiety is a major challenge linked to standardized testing, with research suggesting that up to 60% of students experience it. For students with dyslexia, this anxiety can be much worse, as many standardized tests rely heavily on reading speed and comprehension—areas where they struggle. The pressure to perform well, combined with strict time limits and unfamiliar testing environments, can cause stress, nervousness, and even physical symptoms like headaches or nausea. These factors make it even harder for dyslexic students to focus and perform at their best, leading to feelings of frustration before they even start the test.

Because standardized tests don’t always accommodate the unique ways dyslexic students process information, the impact can be significant. Many of these students need extra time, alternative test formats, or assistive technology to truly show what they know. Without these accommodations, their test scores may not reflect their actual abilities, which can lead to discouragement and lower self-confidence. If students repeatedly have negative testing experiences, they may lose motivation and feel less engaged in school.

As parents, it’s important to advocate for the support and accommodations your child needs. Schools often have options to help, such as extended time, small-group testing, or digital tools that assist with reading. Understanding your child’s rights and working with their teachers can help create a better testing experience and ensure they have the opportunity to demonstrate their true potential.

Dyslexic students can use a variety of strategies to reduce test anxiety and improve their performance on standardized tests. Here are some helpful tips:

Before the Test:

1. Familiarize Yourself with the Test Format – Reviewing sample questions and understanding how the test is structured can reduce surprises and lower anxiety.
2. Use Relaxation Techniques – Deep breathing, meditation, or listening to calming music before studying or testing can help manage stress.
3. Get Enough Sleep and Eat Well – A well-rested brain and proper nutrition can improve focus and mental clarity on test day.

During the Test:

1. Break Questions into Smaller Parts – Read one section at a time, highlight key words, and simplify questions to make them easier to understand.
2. Use a Tracking Tool – If reading is difficult, use a ruler or colored overlay to help track lines of text and improve focus.
3. Stay Positive and Take Deep Breaths – If anxiety starts to rise, pause for a moment, take slow breaths, and remind yourself that you are prepared.

After the Test:

1. Reflect on What Worked Well – Identifying helpful strategies can make future test experiences less stressful.
2. Talk About Your Experience – Sharing feelings with a teacher, parent, or tutor can provide support and guidance for next time.
3. Reward Yourself – Celebrate your effort and progress, regardless of the test outcome, to build confidence and motivation.

With the right strategies, dyslexic students can manage their anxiety and improve their testing experience.

I love this quote from Dr. Ed Hallowell.

Parents who want to learn how to help their child overcome feelings of shame should read this wonderful book by Ben Foss.

The Dyslexia Empowerment Plan
A Blueprint for Renewing Your Child’s Confidence
and Love of Learning
by Ben Foss

It is available on Amazon as an audiobook, Kindle edition, and paperback.

Children with dyslexia struggle to do homework independently.

Parents of dyslexic students often spend several hours each night forcing their child to complete homework assignments—often with tears, arguments, and emotional meltdowns.

To stop the homework battles, reduce stress, and cut homework time in half, start using these 3 homework accommodations tonight—no need to ask for permission, just implement them.

This will give your child the time to develop his or her gifted areas.

How to stop the guessing habit
By Susan Barton

If a child with dyslexia is receiving one-on-one tutoring with an Orton-Gillingham-based system, such as the Wilson Reading System or the Barton Reading & Spelling System, they should not be allowed to read UNcontrolled books on their own while in the early levels of those tutoring programs.

UNcontrolled books include textbooks, Accelerated Reader books, books sent home by the teacher for 20-minutes per night of reading practice, books the other kids are reading, or books from the library.

Reading UNcontrolled books forces children with dyslexia to continue guessing at words. And guessing is what causes bright dyslexic children to "hit the wall in reading development" by third grade (if not sooner).

If you want to understand why students with dyslexia guess at words and how to help them break that habit, watch this 7-minute video chat.

Click here for the handout and checklist.

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