Exam season is upon us, and one can safely say that this season becomes one of the most stressful not only for the kids but parents too. Whether one is in matric or Grade 10, the stress is to get it over and done with, at the same time make sure they pass the exams.
Thousands of learners are currently writing exams across the country as the mid-year exams are currently taking place and parents and/or guardians can be of assistance when it comes to stress relief according to the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG). This is how:
- Know your teens entire exam schedule – pin a copy of the examination timetable on the fridge. Make sure you know when your son or daughter must be in the examination centre, when they are writing which subject.
- Help them maintain a balanced daily routine – some teens feel stressed and work throughout the day and night, pulling all-nighters. But this makes it more difficult to retain and recall info the next day in the exam. Make sure they are getting enough sleep, especially the night before the exam. After an exam, they need time to rest and recharge before they can do any beneficial study for the next paper.
- Sleep improves exam performance – Studying should stop at least an hour before bed to allow your teen to unwind. Falling straight into bed from the study desk is a recipe for sleeplessness.
- A healthy diet is VERY important – What you eat, and drink affects your performance in any field of activity. Avoid fast food or foods high in fat, sugar, and salt. Keep healthy snacks easily available and have them ready for in between study breaks or even to snack on while studying. And lots of water to keep the body and brain hydrated.
- Make sure your teen is not isolated – Make sure your teen still connects with friends. Contact with their peers is very important to maintaining their spirits during the coming weeks. So, whether they do video chats, phone calls or messaging during study breaks, a meaningful conversation can really help to lift your child’s mood.
Apart from being a hard season, those around learners can make it a little more bearable by being helpful.