Helping Students Conquer Math and Science Stress with Confidence

Does your child freeze up during math tests? Do they blank out when they see a page full of numbers or formulas? You’re not alone, and neither are they.

At Kente Academy, we work with students of all ages who struggle with test anxiety, especially in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) subjects. These subjects can feel intimidating, fast-paced, and high-pressure. But here’s the truth: anxiety doesn’t mean your child isn’t smart, it means they need the right support and tools.

What Does STEM Test Anxiety Look Like?

Test anxiety isn’t just “nerves.” It can show up in many ways:

• “I studied, but I forgot everything during the test.”

• “My stomach hurts before every math quiz.”

• “I can do the homework, but I panic during exams.”

• “Science just makes me feel stupid.”

These thoughts are common, especially in middle and high school when the workload increases and students feel pressure to perform.

The Science Behind the Stress

Studies show that math anxiety activates the same part of the brain that processes physical pain. According to research from the American Psychological Association, even highly capable students can underperform when anxiety takes over their working memory, the part of the brain that holds information while solving a problem. In other words: stress hijacks brain power.

The good news is that test anxiety is manageable, and even reversible with the right strategies.

5 Ways Students Can Overcome Test Anxiety in STEM

Here’s what Kente Academy teaches students to help calm nerves and sharpen focus:

1. Practice Under Test Conditions

Simulate the test at home with time limits, silence, and no distractions. Practicing this way builds comfort and reduces surprises on test day.

2. Talk Through the Process

Instead of focusing only on the answer, explain how you got there. Kente tutors encourage students to “think out loud,” which boosts comprehension and builds confidence.

3. Use Breathing & Grounding Techniques

Before and during tests, students can use box breathing (inhale for 4, hold for 4, exhale for 4) or grounding (naming 5 things they see, 4 they can touch, etc.). These small strategies reset the nervous system.

4. Reframe Mistakes as Learning

We teach students that mistakes aren’t failures, they’re feedback. When anxiety decreases, students can reflect on errors and improve over time.

5. Build Confidence with Small Wins

Confidence comes from success over time. Kente’s tutoring sessions are designed to build gradual mastery, whether it’s solving a new equation or understanding a science concept.

What Can Parents Do?

Even if STEM isn’t your strength, you can still support your child:

Ask about mindset, not just grades:

Try questions like: “What part of the test felt hard? What worked well?” instead of just “What did you get?”

Celebrate effort and progress:

Praise persistence, not perfection. “I saw how hard you worked to understand that!” goes a long way.

Avoid last-minute cramming:

Support a steady study routine instead of stressful night-before marathons.

Reach out for help early:

If your child repeatedly struggles, a tutor can make a world of difference. Waiting too long may deepen anxiety.

How Kente Academy Helps Students Manage Test Anxiety

Kente Academy tutors don’t just teach the material—they teach students how to learn and manage pressure. Here’s how we support learners:

Custom Learning Plans: We meet students where they are, building from strengths and addressing gaps.
Supportive Mentorship: Our tutors foster safe learning environments where it’s okay to ask questions and make mistakes.
Strategy Coaching: We teach test-taking skills, organization, and time management—all key to reducing anxiety.
Regular Parent Check-ins: Parents stay in the loop with progress reports and coaching tips.

Final Thought: Anxiety Doesn’t Have to Be a Barrier

STEM subjects are gateways to future opportunities—but only if students feel confident tackling them. With patience, practice, and the right support, students can overcome test anxiety and start to see themselves as problem-solvers, scientists, coders, and engineers.

Ready to Help Your Child Thrive in STEM?

Explore how Kente Academy can support your child through one-on-one tutoring, academic coaching, and test prep that builds both skill and confidence.

Overcoming Test Anxiety in STEM Subjects: Strategies for Students and Support for Parents