How Parents Can Support Their Child’s SAT Preparation

Parents play a crucial role in their child’s academic success, and SAT preparation is no exception. While you’re not the one taking the test (thankfully), your involvement can make a huge difference in helping your child perform at their best. At The Best Test Prep, we know that the SAT journey can feel like a marathon—but with the right support, it’s one your child can win with confidence.  Here’s how parents can step in, cheer on, and even high-five their way to supporting their child’s SAT preparation and becoming the ultimate SAT prep allies.

1. Help Create a Realistic Study Schedule

SAT preparation works best with structure. Help your child create a study schedule that balances schoolwork, extracurriculars, and downtime. Collaborate with them to:

• dedicate specific times for studying to avoid last-minute cramming
• set weekly goals
• remain on schedule for Test Day

Pro Tip: A less intense study schedule that your child can maintain is far better than a more intense one that they can’t. Also, continuity is key—one hour of preparation five days a week is much more effective than five hours one day a week.

2. Provide the Right Resources

Supporting your child’s prep means equipping them with the tools they need. Invest in:

• high-quality online SAT materials, since the course is now digital
• expert instruction and guidance, like one-on-one tutoring or group classes (hello, The Best Test Prep!)
• timed practice tests for Test Day rehearsal, which we can show you how to maximize the value of

Remember: The SAT isn’t about brute force; it’s about working smart, not hard.

3. Create a Conducive Study Environment

A focused mind starts with the right setting. Help your child carve out a distraction-free study zone:

• Keep the area quiet and organized.
• Minimize interruptions from phones, siblings, or barking dogs.
• Provide snacks and hydration for those long study sessions.

Think of yourself as the test-prep supply officer—everything your child needs, ready at their fingertips.

4. Be Their Cheerleader

The SAT can feel overwhelming for students, which is why your encouragement matters more than ever. Be there to:

• celebrate small wins, like higher scores on practice quizzes and tests
• offer a listening ear when frustration sets in
• remind them that their worth isn’t defined by one test score

Pro Tip: Avoid comparisons to other students. Your child’s journey is unique, and a supportive mindset is their best immunity against Test Day anxiety.

5. Teach Stress Management Techniques

SAT prep isn’t just about academics—it’s also about managing nerves. Help your child learn relaxation strategies:

• Encourage regular exercise to release stress.
• Teach deep breathing or mindfulness techniques for focus.
• Promote good sleep hygiene and healthy eating habits.

And when all else fails, remind them: “You’re preparing now so that Test Day will feel like a breeze.”

6. Stay Involved Without Hovering

There’s a fine line between being supportive and being overbearing. Offer help, but let your child take ownership of their preparation. Some ways to stay involved include:

• checking in on their progress once a week
• asking if they need help scheduling study time or clarifying tricky concepts.
• respecting their independence as they build confidence, which is extremely important for high scores

7. Make Test Day a Breeze

When the big day arrives, your role is to be the calm, organized presence that ensures everything goes smoothly. Help by:

• making sure they pack their essentials the night before (ID, admission ticket, calculator, snacks)
• having them get a good night’s sleep and setting multiple alarms to avoid a late wake-up call
• preparing for them the right foods at dinner the night before and at breakfast on Test Day (feel free to ask us about this)

Pro Tip: If your child feels calm and ready on Test Day, they’ll perform better. It’s like being the pilot of a well-prepped aircraft—you’ve checked everything, and now it’s time to soar.

Your Role in Their Success

Your involvement in your child’s SAT preparation can turn a daunting task into a manageable, and even enjoyable, process. By providing structure, resources, and encouragement, you’ll help them approach the SAT with confidence and skill. At The Best Test Prep, we’re here to help you both navigate this journey like pros, so that Test Day feels less like an obstacle and more like a victory lap.

Much of this list is taken care of by The Best Test Prep, such as creating an effective study schedule, providing all prep materials, coaching and cheerleading, reducing stress, and even providing guidance on the best foods to eat at dinner and breakfast before the test! We have SAT prep down to a science. Call us at (844) 672-PREP and we’ll help your child conquer the SAT!