Taking an exam can cause your child stress, sometimes even anxiety. As parents, you can help by simply changing certain habits. Here are some tips to help your son or daughter the day before an exam:
1 – STAY CALM
Stay calm throughout the preparation process and suggest your child do the same to reduce stress. In some cases, the simple act of being evaluated can cause a child major anxiety, and you need to help make the situation less alarming.
2 – STAY ACTIVE
Children, teenagers, and even adults learn more easily when they are active and relaxed. Suggest they stay active, and more specifically that they include physical activities in their preparation process. For example, taking frequent breaks while studying and using those breaks to go on a walk, run, or do another activity they enjoy can help them concentrate better.
3- SLEEP WELL
Go to bed early the night before the exam. Nothing beats a good night’s sleep to be at your best. In other words, avoid late-night study sessions!
4- PLAN YOUR MEALS CAREFULLY
The day before the exam, prepare a nutritious dinner high in carbohydrates, such as pasta. Avoid dishes that are too fatty, salty, or sweet. Take time to have breakfast on the day of the exam. A light but nutritious breakfast will help with concentration and mood. The worst thing would be to show up at school feeling hungry or thirsty.
5- START EXAM DAY RIGHT
Avoid last-minute preparation—it will only make your child feel more nervous. Avoid stressing out your child with last-minute questions and comments like “I hope you didn’t forget this,” “Did you review that?” and “Do you remember what I told you yesterday?”
A smile, a friendly little pat on the back, and some words of encouragement like, “You’ll see; everything will be alright!” will have a more positive impact at this point.
6- BE SUPPORTIVE
Let your child know that as long as they do their best you will be proud of them no matter what. In case of difficulties, help them find resources that’ll provide concrete solutions. Asking the teacher questions, attending extra study sessions at school, or getting a qualified tutor are all good options.