Does your child freeze up at the word “test”? You’re not alone, most kids (and let’s be honest, most parents) dread them. But here’s the twist: testing doesn’t just measure learning, it actually makes learning stick. Practice testing whether it’s a quick round of flashcards, a game of “teach me what you learned,” or even a mock quiz at the kitchen table turns study time into brain-boosting time. In this post, we’ll share how you can turn tests into a powerful (and even fun!) learning tool at home, no pressure, no stress, just smart strategies that work.

Tired of test prep books that don’t deliver? Here’s a secret: the best way to prepare for standardized tests is by using old, official practice exams straight from the test makers. They’re free, accurate, and give students real insight into what to expect on test day. In this post, we break down why retired exams work better than third-party books, where to find them (SAT, ACT, SHSAT, ISEE, SSAT, Regents), and how to use them to build a smarter, more effective study plan.

Why is it easier for kids to remember song lyrics than science terms? The secret lies in how the brain stores information. In this post, we break down the power of memory-boosting techniques like keyword mnemonics, silly mental imagery, and fun learning stories. Whether your child is prepping for a quiz or just trying to retain new material, these evidence-backed strategies make learning stick.

Wondering what the NYC Regents Exams are and how to prepare for them in 2025? This comprehensive guide walks students and parents through everything, from updated test dates and graduation requirements to study strategies and parent support tips. With summer break in full swing, now is the perfect time to start prepping. Don’t miss our breakdown of test schedules, how to use past exams effectively, and why these tests matter for college and beyond.

Ever hear your child explaining a math problem to themselves or “teaching” you what they learned in science? That’s not just cute, it’s actually one of the most powerful study techniques backed by research: self-explanation.

By pausing to explain what they’re learning and why it makes sense, students build deeper understanding, stronger memory, and better test performance. Whether they’re prepping for the SAT or just trying to get through homework, self-explanation turns passive reading into active thinking.

Think summarizing is just busywork? Think again.
This blog breaks down the science behind why summarizing can boost learning, if it's done the right way. We’ll walk you through what makes a great summary (hint: it’s not copying and pasting), why most students get it wrong, and how to turn this simple habit into a powerful study tool.

Think highlighting helps your child study? Not always. While it feels productive, research shows that most students don’t use it effectively, often marking too much and learning too little. In this blog, we break down why highlighting alone doesn’t boost memory, what the science really says, and how parents can teach better habits at home. Small tweaks like “one sentence per paragraph” and adding quick reflection can turn passive reading into real learning.

Summer is more than a break—it’s the perfect time for test prep. With fewer school-year distractions, students (especially sophomores and juniors) finally have the space to build real study habits that stick. But not all study strategies are effective—research shows that popular habits like rereading and highlighting may actually waste time. This article breaks down which methods truly work, how to apply them at home, and why summer is the smartest season to get ahead.

Praising kids for being "smart" might feel right but it can backfire. This article unpacks why effort-based praise builds real resilience and motivation, helping students develop a growth mindset, embrace challenges, and bounce back from failure. Discover how the right kind of feedback can empower your child to thrive in school and beyond.

In the age of autocorrect and emojis, vocabulary still holds power. This article dives into why word knowledge is key to comprehension, critical thinking, and academic success. Discover smart, research-backed strategies to help students grow their vocabulary and confidence—one word at a time.

Confidence isn’t just a personality trait—it’s a skill. During test season, building real confidence means going beyond content review and giving students tools they can trust under pressure. In this article, we share practical, research-backed ways to train confidence—through strategy, structure, and small wins that add up. Perfect for parents and students ready to shift from stress to self-belief.

Guessing isn’t about luck—it’s a skill students can sharpen. This article breaks down smart strategies like process of elimination, identifying clue words, and avoiding extremes. Backed by research and classroom experience, these tips help students stay calm and think critically under pressure. Perfect for students preparing for the SSAT, ISEE, SAT, and more.

Is your child stuck rewriting the intro for the tenth time? Perfectionism often hides behind “productive” planning—especially in high-achieving students. This blog breaks down how overplanning stalls progress and what to do instead. Learn how to reframe writing, build momentum, and turn messy first drafts into real growth. Progress, not perfection, is the goal.

Feeling like your child is stuck in the “I can’t do this” loop? You’re not alone—and that’s exactly why this blog was written. Inside, you’ll find simple, science-backed ways to help your child build confidence, recover from mistakes, and feel less pressure during test season. With just a few mindset shifts (and some practical strategies), you’ll start to see “I can’t” turn into “I got this.” Let’s help your child grow—not just as a test-taker, but as a resilient, empowered learner.

Feeling overwhelmed by the college admissions process? This year-by-year guide breaks down what parents can do from sophomore to senior year to support their child’s journey—from test prep and campus visits to essays and final decisions. Stay ahead, stay organized, and help your child apply with confidence.

The college application process can be overwhelming, but with early planning, parents can make a big difference. Our Parent’s Guide to the College Application Timeline offers key milestones and tips for supporting your child every step of the way. Ready to reduce stress and stay organized? Download our checklist today!

Deciding between the SSAT and ISEE can be challenging, but understanding their key differences can help you make the best choice for your child. This blog breaks down each test’s structure, scoring, and unique features, helping you determine which aligns better with your child’s strengths. We also provide expert tips on test preparation, from study strategies to time management. Whether you're just starting the admissions process or looking for test prep guidance, this guide has you covered.

Thinking about school applications? It doesn’t have to be stressful! This guide lays out a simple month-by-month plan to help you stay on track with test prep, applications, and interviews—so your child feels confident and ready.

Struggling to make studying stick? The problem isn’t effort—it’s the method. Most students rely on passive techniques like re-reading notes, but real learning happens through Mastery Learning and Active Recall. These strategies focus on true understanding and active retrieval, helping students retain knowledge longer, build confidence, and reduce stress.