Helping Kids Through Exam Stress

Examination time can be particularly stressful for children because of the pressure of good performance from the school, parents, teachers and peers.  Children also feel fearful and insecure about their level of preparedness due to the suspense of exams.

Children also get pressurized by the level of competition that exists in their schools, neighbourhood, and within the family too.

Helping children at such times is important.  The stress, tension and anxiety during created during exams will work to the detriment of the child and will affect the performance.

The best thing to do is not threaten the child or create a fear of exam in their minds.  Do not make the child study using threats of failure in exams.  Do not force them to study when they are not in the mood for it.

Allow them time for resting and relaxation.  Let the child unwind the pressure and stress by playing for sometime, watching television or listening to music.  See to it that the child is well fed and gets adequate sleep during the exams.

Be supportive of their efforts and show them your confidence in their abilities.  Do not taunt them or pass sarcastic/negative comments.  It will lower the morale of the child and cause distress and hurt.

Praise their efforts and hard work.  Sooth their fears by saying that they have studied well and will do the exams well.  Do not tell them about your expectations at such times, as it will burden them.

Be with the child when he/she is studying or you may take an off from your workplace during exam time to emotionally support the child.  Children may feel stressed out if they are alone and feel helpless.  Your support can de-stress them and allay their fears.

Avoid scolding the kid or making comparisons with other children; or else it may add to the stress and also lower their morale.