Together with a plethora of other Australian students, close to one million students undertake the training each year in March as part of the NAPLAN System. With the exams approaching, it is quite normal for both students and parents to feel a slight tinge of anxiety and restlessness.

Regardless of whether your child is attempting the test for the first time or is at the final stage of their year NAPLAN, it is bound to be a try-some experience for both the children and parents alike.

But like with everything, adequate mental acclimatization and preparation for the test ensures that the children and parents do not spend the time prior to the test feeling anxious. Students are assessed on four principal components by NAPLAN, which are–reading, language, writing, and numeration. This might sound off-putting but there is calmness that can be found in organised preparation.

You will learn practical tips and strategies in this blog as to how parents and kids can prepare for the NAPLAN test more confidently. Together lets use this tap to tell a success story instead!!

What is NAPLAN and Why Does It Matter?

NAPLAN, short for the National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy, is a standardized test conducted annually for students in Years 3, 5, 7, and 9 across Australia. It’s designed to assess foundational skills that are essential for lifelong learning—things like reading comprehension, effective writing, grammar and spelling (referred to as "language conventions"), and numeracy (math-related problem-solving skills).

What Skills Does the NAPLAN Test Assess?

• Reading: Can students understand and interpret different types of texts? This includes everything from fiction to non-fiction, charts, and instructions.

• Writing: Are students able to craft clear and coherent pieces of writing, whether they’re telling a story or presenting an argument?

• Language Conventions: This section checks for mastery of grammar, punctuation, and spelling—key tools for effective communication.

• Numeracy: This measures how well students understand and apply mathematical concepts, from basic arithmetic to more complex problem-solving.

In essence, NAPLAN provides a structured way to evaluate whether students develop the skills they’ll need in school and everyday life.

Now comes the time for some tips for NAPLAN preparation for students reading this blog.

Tips for Students on NAPLAN Preparation

Preparing for NAPLAN doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. The key is to approach it step by step, focusing on building confidence and sharpening your skills in a way that feels manageable and even enjoyable. Here’s how:

• Get to Know the Test

One of the best ways to prepare for NAPLAN is to familiarize yourself with the test format and question types. Look at past papers or sample questions online to understand what kinds of challenges you might face.

For example, in writing, you may need to create a persuasive argument or a narrative, while numeracy questions often involve multi-step problem-solving. Knowing the structure of the test and practicing under similar time constraints can make the experience much less intimidating and help you feel confident on test day.

• Practice Key Skills

Building your skills in the areas tested by NAPLAN—reading, writing, and numeracy—is crucial. For reading, explore a wide variety of texts like books, news articles, or even recipes, and practice answering questions about the main idea or purpose. In writing, try crafting persuasive arguments on topics you care about or tell short stories to practice narrative techniques. For numeracy, focus on mental math, solving real-world problems, and brush up on concepts like fractions and percentages. Regular practice will help sharpen your abilities and make these skills second nature.

• Make a Study Plan

Cramming the night before NAPLAN won’t do the trick—consistency is the key. Create a study schedule that breaks your preparation into manageable chunks. For instance, dedicate specific days to reading, writing, and math practice, and keep sessions short and focused—20 to 30 minutes is enough.

• Take Care of Yourself

Your brain needs your body to be in good shape to perform at its best. Start with a good night’s sleep—8 to 10 hours will ensure you’re rested and alert. Fuel your body with nutritious meals, including plenty of fruits, vegetables, and healthy snacks, to keep your energy levels steady. Stay active, whether that’s playing a sport, dancing, or taking a walk—physical movement helps you focus and relieves stress. Finally, if you feel nervous, take deep breaths, stretch, or try mindfulness techniques to stay calm. 

• Believe in Yourself

Confidence is key to success. NAPLAN is not about being perfect—it’s about showing what you’ve learned and trying your best. Trust in your abilities and the preparation you’ve done. Remind yourself that everyone finds some parts of the test challenging, and that’s okay. If you stay positive and focus on doing your best, you can approach NAPLAN with the right mindset.

Now, if you’re a parent reading this blog, you play a significant role in your child’s preparation. Here are NAPLAN preparation tips for you. 

NAPLAN Preparation Tips for Parents

Supporting your child through NAPLAN preparation boosts their confidence, reduces stress, and fosters a positive environment. Here’s how you can help:

• Understand the Purpose of NAPLAN

Help your child see NAPLAN as a tool to track their progress, not a test of their worth. It’s not about being perfect but about doing their best. Your attitude matters—by keeping it positive and low-pressure, you can help them feel more confident.

• Create a Supportive Environment

Set up a quiet, organized study space free of distractions where your child can focus. Provide the necessary materials and encourage short, focused study sessions with regular breaks. A calm, stress-free home atmosphere makes learning more effective.

• Get Involved

You don’t need to be a teacher to help. Work through practice questions together or discuss how NAPLAN skills apply to everyday life, like reading recipes or calculating budgets. Showing interest in their learning can motivate them and make the process feel less daunting.

• Prioritize Their Well-Being

If your child feels anxious, reassure them that it’s normal and okay to be nervous. Share your own experiences with tests and how you handled challenges. Listen to their concerns, encourage breaks, and remind them to rest and relax. Emotional support is just as important as academic preparation.

By staying supportive, engaged, and focused on their well-being, you can turn NAPLAN preparation into a positive and confidence-building experience.

Before we conclude, here are some additional tips for the exam day. 

Tips for NAPLAN Test Day

Test day can feel overwhelming, but with a bit of preparation and encouragement, it can go smoothly. Here’s how:

• The Night Before: Pack essentials like pencils, erasers, sharpeners, and a water bottle. Lay out your child’s uniform or outfit to save time in the morning. Ensure they get 8–10 hours of sleep for optimal focus and energy. 

• On the test Day: Serve a nutritious breakfast with protein, whole grains, and fruit to fuel your child’s brain. Arrive at school early to avoid any last-minute stress and give your child time to settle in.

• Encourage a Positive Mindset: Reassure your child that doing their best is all that matters. A simple “I’m proud of you!” can help them feel confident. If they’re nervous, practice calming breaths together.

• Dress Comfortably: Ensure your child wears comfortable clothing and layers they can adjust if the classroom feels too hot or cold. Being physically comfortable can reduce distractions during the test.

• Pack a Snack (If Allowed): If the school permits, pack a light, healthy snack for breaks to keep their energy up. Choose something simple like a banana or granola bar—easy to eat and mess-free.

Final Thoughts

NAPLAN may feel like a big deal, but it’s just one part of the learning journey. For students, it’s a chance to showcase their skills and confidently tackle challenges. For parents, it’s an opportunity to support and encourage your child while building their resilience.

Remember, NAPLAN doesn’t define a student’s worth—it’s simply a tool to identify strengths and areas for growth. By focusing on preparation, balance, and positivity, you can make the experience meaningful and stress-free.

If you’re seeking extra support, check out the FunFox Program, designed to make language and literacy preparation engaging and effective. With interactive activities and targeted learning tools, FunFox helps students build confidence in reading, writing, and grammar—skills essential for NAPLAN and beyond.

So whether you’re taking the test or supporting from the sidelines, stay calm, stay positive, and trust in the effort you’ve put in. With preparation, support, and a little help from programs like FunFox, you’ve got this. 

For more, book a call with us today! We are here to help.