This is a collaborative post.
It’s reached that time when your child is nearing exams. Stress levels are high and emotions are all over the place. You may have noticed that your child has started to behave differently due to how the stress is making them feel. And this is completely normal. However, it does not mean that your child should live through the stress. As parents, you can teach your child how to manage exam stress healthily. Here are some tips from a private college in Wiltshire if you would like to find out more.
Learning styles
Help your child figure out their learning style. There are four types of learning styles: visual, auditory, kinaesthetic and reading/writing. It is important to help your child know which one of these applies best as it could be the change needed to level up in their learning.
Positivity
Teach them to be more positive. In times of hardship, it is easy to be cruel to yourself. Encourage your child to turn negative thoughts such as ‘I can’t do this’ to ‘I will work hard until I’ve got this’. This small shift in mindset is what will keep your child motivated to work through their studies.
Breaks
Encourage them to take breaks. Too much of anything really is not good for you. The majority of the time, students will study for long periods of time thinking it is the best way to retain information. However, this is far from the truth and it is a poor way to deal with exam stress.
Taking regular breaks to eat, watch a film or spend time doing leisurely activities will create a healthy balance and a better approach to studying.
Techniques
Run through exam techniques with them. Sometimes, exam stress can come from your child feeling hopeless and alone in their struggle. Sitting with them and going through questions and answers will give them the support they need.
Let them know that you are aware of what they’re going through and how proud you are of their hard work. This will give them a strong sense of confidence and boost their self-esteem. They will realise they can deal with exam stress as you believe in them.
Preparation
Prepare them on the day of the exam. Ensure your child has been sleeping and eating well before the exam begins. This will ensure they are able to focus well throughout their exam. Help them sort out snacks and stationery to take with them on the day as well.
At the end of the day, show your child how proud you are of their efforts. Remind them not to compare themselves to anyone else and to focus on their own journey.
