As board examinations descend, it is understandable for students to experience high-stress levels due to intense pressure to meet expectations of qualifying with good marks. There are several factors that lead to exam stress including pressure from parents and teachers, unrealistic standards placed by the child on themselves, inadequate preparation, or poor time management.

According to the latest insights from the National Council of Education Research and Training (NCERT) survey, a significant 80% of students grapple with exam-related anxiety. Not everyone will have friend like Rancho from the movie 3 Idiots to help kids with exam stress. Hence, highlighting the imperative need for a holistic approach is critical and that is where parents play a vital role in helping children manage their stress.

If you are looking to help instill confidence in your child during examinations here are 5 tips to navigating exam stress in children:

1. Regard your Child’s Feelings:

As a parent I completely understand your feelings at this time but it’s important to remember that parents shouldn’t dismiss their emotions since doing so can make children worry even more. Sit with your child, talk to them, ask them how they feel about their upcoming examinations, be open, and encourage them to be open and discuss their fears. Understanding and recognizing what the child is undergoing and experiencing is the first step to navigate exam stress.

2. Avoid Comparisons:

Most parents tend to draw comparisons that can be demotivating for children. This increases their fear of meeting your expectations resulting more stress. Instead, provide constructive feedback and establish achievable goals to aid your child’s progress. It’s essential for children to feel supported by their parents during challenging times.

3. Create a Supportive Environment:

Create a nurturing environment at home by fostering a culture of encouragement and understanding. Designate a specific study space that minimizes distractions, providing your child with a focused and conducive area for learning. This supportive atmosphere not only enhances the learning experience but also strengthens the parent-child bond.

4. Practice stress-busting activities:

Engage in physical activities like walks, runs, or yoga sessions with your child. Any mindful exercise not only boosts energy but also enhances overall effectiveness for both the child and parent. Initiate study sessions by incorporating a brief 10-minute meditation or a simple pranayama program. This practice aims to bring heightened awareness to the intricate connection between the mind and body, setting a positive tone for the study session.

5. Incorporate Effective Time Management:

Collaborate with your child to create a realistic study schedule. Break down study sessions into manageable intervals, incorporating short breaks to prevent burnout. Teach the value of prioritization and planning to reduce last-minute cramming, which can contribute to heightened stress levels.

Along with these 5 parenting tips encourage them to eat a healthy, balanced diet, and ensure that they get enough sleep, particularly in the run-up to the exams. Oakridge, recognized as one of the best international schools in Visakhapatnam, is committed to providing holistic education and a nurturing environment for your child’s growth. If you still have some worries always reach out to our teachers at Oakridge or Student Counsellor who are always available to help you and your child.

Bhuwaneswari Ajay Aenekatt
Student Counsellor