So much talk, talk, talk about the fourth grade tests.

Parent-to-parent: How is your kid doing? How are you doing? Don’t you hate it? Is your kid anxious? How anxious? etc.

Teacher-to-parent: The kids are really doing great. It’s a tough week. They’re getting through it. We really feel for them. We’re very proud of them. etc.

Parent-to-teacher: My kid is a wreck about the test. What should I do?  etc.

Parent-to-kid: Don’t worry. You’ll do great. Just take it slow. Don’t worry if someone else finishes before you. Check your answers. Get a good night’s rest. Eat a good breakfast. Take your time. I know you’re going to do the best you can. I LOVE YOU.

Kid-to-parent: We’ve been doing test prep for months!! I can’t wait for this to be over? Will I really be left back if I don’t do well on this test. Will I get into a middle school if I don’t do well on this test? Will you still love me if I don’t do well on this test? Will we celebrate when this is over?

Here and there: One teacher told her students to come up with a positive mantra for themselves. To say that over and over to quell their anxiety.  One mom taught the kids in her son’s class meditation.

Overheard: "Mr. Hess, Mr. Hess,  How did I do on the test today? How did I do?  (Mr. Hess, a very beloved and gentle teacher at PS 321, explained that he has no idea and that it will take months to score the tests…He probably assured him that he did his very best…)

Overall: it’s done. The kids survived. Resiliently. Time to get back to being a kid. Hey, does anyone remember what it means to be a kid?