Do’s And Don’ts for Parents During Exam Season

Tips for Parents During Exams

Parental support is crucial during exam season. It not only affects the performance of the child but their overall well-being during the examination. So, let say parents also go through a testing phase during exams. Parents always go through the dilemma such as, “How much interference is good? When should I step in? When should I step back?” These kinds of questions always boggle their minds. Most of the times they spread their stress and anxiety towards their children too.

As a parent, your responsibility should be taking off the load and exam stress not burdening your child. It is understandable that you as a parent expect your child to set the bar higher than you did. However, it’s the constant urge for perfection which creates stress.

One of the most important things that you can do for your child is to develop a sense of self-esteem in them. Positive self-esteem will be far more fruitful for them than any significant numbers on the mark sheet.

10 Ways to Help Your Child Succeed in High School:

Here are a few things which a parent can do during the exam season.

1. Deal with exam stress: It is exam your child might already be stressed about it. Don’t add to that stress. Children at this age have far less experience in handling stressful situation and may not be knowing how to manage it properly. Say encouraging things to your child, avoid negative phrases like, “it’s a do or die situation for them.”
   Instead say, “It is just another exam. It’s not the end of the world; do your best don’t stress over results.” There are many people who are already stressing your child like their teachers, society, even friends, and you must not be another source of stress. Check our blog article on Handling Exam Stress.
2. Plan with your child: Last minute rush is not good for anyone or anything. Sit with your child and make a daily planner and keep a copy with you as well. Analyze that planner once every week and see to it if any moderations are required. This keeps the study well-paced and gives time for revision.
3. Set realistic expectations: No one but you know the capability of your child. The cutoff mark of a college must not be the defining criteria. Know that your child has a limit they will be able to perform on according to his/her ability. Trust in their abilities and have faith. Every child is different; you can’t compare all with the same benchmark.
4. Create a relax and happy environment: Parents are usually more stressed than their children. However, let your tension be with you. Do not direct that anxiety and anger produced along with it towards your child.
5. Create a suitable study environment: Make sure the study area is well-lit and ventilated. Many parents tend to close all the doors and windows to avoid distractions to the child. Instead set-up a place for your child which is free from homely distractions like TV, kitchen and main door. Ensure all the necessary school supplies are with them like stationary and books.
6. Don’t force them to change their study pattern: Each child is different so is their study style. Don’t force your child to change their study patterns. Some children prefer morning hours and some late nights, some study silently and some tend to read aloud. Let them study the way they want. Even if any changes are required your child will do it as per his/her comfort.
7. Healthy and nutritious food: Don’t let your child skip any meals. Always keep a bottle of water next to them; this will keep them well hydrated and fresh. Whenever they take breaks in between give them healthy snacks like fruits or salad, avoid caffeinated drinks. Low nutrition level will reduce concentration.
8. Give them a break: Don’t isolate your child with the world. Let them meet their friends and family. It will help them in lifting their spirits, and they feel fresher and confident. However, try to avoid negative people who add fuel to the fear.
9. Teacher’s Counselling: If your child is going through our online coaching classes, allow him to take advise and exam preparation tips from our experienced online tutors. It will help them to prepare and face the real situation in a more confident way.
10. Be available: Last and the most critical thing that, Be Available for Your Child. Reduce your social engagements, watching TV and talking loudly over the phone. Your child must not feel like he/she is alone in this.