Talk to your child's teacher about the subject matter covered on the test. In some schools, a handout goes home with the children early in the school year to allow parents to assist their child in studying the different subjects.
Provide ongoing assistance to your child in the months preceding the test. Not only does this including instilling positive study habits in your child, it also means placing importance upon their academic achievement and promoting a healthy attitude towards mastering the subjects.
Insist that your child attend school every day he can. Barring illness or a family emergency, your child should be sitting in his seat when the bell rings. The more importance you place upon his education, the more he will make the connection between learning and responsibility.
Develop a daily routine that is conducive to discipline and promote healthy habits before your child takes the state test. Set regular bedtimes that allow him to get enough sleep and rise early enough in the morning to eat a relaxed breakfast before showering and getting dressed. In addition, set aside time after dinner to finish homework assignments.
Encourage your child to do his best on the test but don't create undue stress. Other children and teachers will also be discussing the test and more pressure from you can result in test anxiety. You are in the unique position to temper your child's stress level by assuring him that the test is important but not vital to his success.