Private School Interviews Made Easy: A Parent’s Guide to Support & Success
How to Support Your Child During the Private School Admissions Process
The private school admissions process can be a stressful experience for both parents and children. However, research shows that parental emotions and behaviors significantly influence how children handle stress and anxiety during this transition. By approaching the process with positivity and reassurance, parents can help their children feel confident and excited rather than overwhelmed. Here’s how to guide your child through the experience in a supportive and stress-free manner.
Before the Day of the Assessment
✅ DO:
Frame it as an exciting experience: “You get to visit a new school and meet some new friends!”
Encourage curiosity rather than pressure: “You can ask questions and share your ideas, just like when we talk at home.”
Normalize the experience: “Lots of kids do this—it’s just a chance to play, learn, and have fun.”
❌ DON’T:
Over-prepare or drill them with test questions – This can create anxiety and make them second-guess themselves.
Talk about ‘passing’ or ‘failing’ – At this age, there’s no right or wrong answer.
Let your anxiety show – Children pick up on stress, which can make them nervous.
On the Day of the Assessment
✅ DO:
Keep routines normal – A familiar morning routine, including a nutritious breakfast, will help them feel comfortable.
Use positive, reassuring words – Saying “Have fun! I can’t wait to hear all about it” fosters excitement rather than pressure.
Show confidence in your child – A warm smile and relaxed demeanor will reassure them.
❌ DON’T:
Express doubt or pressure them – Avoid saying, “I hope you do well” or “Don’t be shy,” as these can increase anxiety.
Make a big deal out of the assessment – Over-explaining or emphasizing its importance can heighten stress.
Compare them to others – Statements like “Other kids might know more” can shake their confidence.
After the Assessment
✅ DO:
Ask open-ended, positive questions:
“What was your favorite part of today?”
“Did you meet any new friends?”
“What was something fun or interesting you did?”
Praise their effort and confidence: “I’m so proud of you for trying new things today!”
Keep the experience light and neutral – If they struggled, reassure them that it was just one of many experiences.
❌ DON’T:
Interrogate or overanalyze their responses – Avoid asking, “Did you answer everything correctly?” or “What did the teacher ask?”
Express disappointment or pressure – If they say, “I didn’t like it,” avoid reacting negatively.
Make it about ‘winning’ or ‘getting in’ – Focus on the experience, not the outcome.
Let your anxiety show – Children pick up on stress, which can make them nervous.
The Bottom Line
A positive, stress-free approach helps children feel confident and excited about the admissions process. Support them with encouragement rather than pressure, and they will naturally shine. By managing your own anxiety and keeping the experience light, you’ll help your child approach this milestone with curiosity and self-assurance.
At LWL, we help guide children and parents through the private school admissions process. Reach out to us for expert support, including mock interviews, preparation assistance, and answers to all your questions!
