Exams and tests have been a source of stress for students as far as we can remember, and parents should know how to best help their children.
According to Reachout, an online site dedicated to mental health says that some of the tell-tale signs of spotting exam stress in your child include, but aren’t limited to:
- Withdrawing and disengagement
- Not making time for anything other than studying
- Changes in sleep and/or eating patterns
- Increased use of nervous habits (teeth grinding, nail-biting, etc.)
- A loss of interest in things that they usually enjoy
There are many ways to help your child as they prepare for their exams, and how parents act can play an important role in helping their children in a positive way. Here are a few ways parents can help, while also giving their children a positive environment.
Creating a Positive Studying Environment
The area your child studies in makes a big impact on how well they’ll be able to focus on concentrating. Do your best to keep the home environment quiet with no distractions. Make sure your child has everything they need in order to study; computer, writing utensils, calculators, etc. Offer help whenever your child needs it. Whether it be helping them with a complex math problem or looking over their essay for mistakes, a parent’s help is indispensable. Your child will thank you for it.
Encouraging Healthy Habits
Working too hard or studying too hard can lead to burnout. Make sure to always encourage your child to take small breaks in between large sessions, whether it’s to take a walk or simply to eat a healthy snack while reading. These healthy habits can do wonders in preventing your child from overworking themself.
Offer Emotional and Mental Support
Exam week is stressful and anxiety-inducing for many students. Fostering a safe place for children to share their problems is crucial. You need to make sure that they are not defined by their grades, and that they are doing a good job. The simple act of listening to your child’s problems and providing encouragement can be very beneficial for their mental health.
Help with Time Management
Keeping a routine and learning to manage your time is a valuable skill that everyone should learn. A good idea is to teach your child to set deadlines, space out their studying material, and prioritize tasks, and overall time management. This is a valuable skill that everyone should learn soon in their life.
Parents play an important role in a child’s life, and effective help can support your child immensely during their time of stress, and empowers them to do their best on their tests and exams.
