PREPARING FOR JANUARY EXAMS
As exams approach, your child may feel the weight of increased academic pressure. Helping them develop effective time management skills is crucial. Encourage them to break tasks into smaller, manageable steps to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
One common challenge for teens is procrastination. Often, this stems from an over-reliance on the need to feel ‘motivated’ to start a task. Career coaches suggest that the most successful individuals rely on routines rather than waiting for motivation. Establishing consistent, realistic routines ensures steady progress, regardless of fluctuating motivation levels.
Parents can support their children by helping them create a balanced schedule that incorporates study, leisure, and personal time. A growth mindset is also important – emphasise effort over perfection and remind them that mistakes are part of learning. Encourage them to seek help when needed. Most importantly, provide a supportive home environment where they feel valued, regardless of academic outcomes.
Managing Stress and Promoting Well-being
The demands of a challenging academic year can take a toll on teenagers’ mental and emotional health. Parents play a vital role in helping their children navigate these pressures.
- Foster Open Communication: Create a safe space for your teen to share their feelings. Actively listening and validating their emotions can help them feel understood and less isolated.
- Promote Health Routines: Encourage your child to balance schoolwork with relaxation. Sleep, nutrition, and exercise are essential. Studies show that even a 20-minute walk before studying or exams can enhance comprehension, writing, and math skills. Steve Jobs famously used walking to solve problems—a strategy backed by science. Suggest a short, phone-free walk to help your teen reset and refocus.
- Focus on Holistic Well-being: Remind your child that their worth isn’t tied to their academic performance. A nurturing environment helps build confidence and resilience, enabling them to tackle challenges more effectively.
Caleb Questel
School Counsellor at The British International School Abu Dhabi
