As a parent, how do you handle exam stress of your kids? Do you know that 70% of students feel intense stress during exams?
Well, there’s a part we often forget. It’s not just your kid studying under at an international school in Borivali who feels overwhelmed. This stress passes on to parents, too. Think of those late-night revisions, the rising tension, and the quiet pressure – they all become a part of your daily life.
Whether your child is preparing for ICSE board exams or their first big test, the anxiety grips the entire household. Suddenly, your living room turns into a mini war room. Every conversation circles back to “Did you revise that chapter?”
In this blog, we have comprehensively explained how to deal with stress during exams. Read on to for real-world tips that will help you make your child feel supported and confident.
Why do kids feel exam pressure?
It’s easy to think kids get stressed just because exams are “hard.” But the pressure often comes from deeper, more emotional places.
They Don’t Want to Let You Down
Even if you haven’t said a word about marks, your child may still fear disappointing you. That silent pressure to make you proud? It’s real.
Too Many Expectations From Everyone
Teachers expect performance. Friends at their ICSE school in Kandivali talk about how much they’ve studied. Sometimes, even the child sets sky-high expectations for themselves.
When Time Slips Away
Poor planning or procrastination adds to the panic. One missed study session can feel like a mountain of catching up.
Comparison Kills Confidence
A simple question like “How much syllabus is left?” from a friend can trigger major self-doubt. Naturally, kids struggle to cope up with exam pressure. Older kids in the best ICSE school in Mumbai often worry about what these marks mean. These include choice of streams, school admissions, and future careers.
Instead of pushing for answers, ask gently:
“What’s worrying you the most right now?”
You might be surprised at what they say, and relieved that they finally said it.
Signs Your Child Is Struggling To Handle Stress Before Exam
Often, your child struggles to handle exam pressure. But they won’t tell you that they’re feeling stressed. Usually, their actions speak louder than words.
Maybe, you’ll notice your talkative child has suddenly gone quiet. Or, they may snap over small things. In a study, nearly half of primary school children reported issues related to physical stress, like headaches (46.6%) and stomachaches just before exams.
These are some common signs that they’re struggling to cope up with exam pressure.
- Your child gets irritated or emotional easily without a clear reason
- He or she complains of headaches or tummy aches, particularly before studying
- They struggle to fall asleep, or wake up late at night feeling tired
- Avoiding books altogether, or suddenly cramming non-stop
- Eating much less or a lot more than usual
Every child copes with exams differently. Some shut down, others act out. As a parent, you must notice the change and respond with patience. A little empathy can go a long way as they handle stress before exam.
How to deal with stress during exams? 10 Practical Ways
Check out these practical guidelines to know how to deal with stress during exams.
1. Cope Up With Exam Pressure with A Realistic Study Plan
Don’t pack every subject into a single day. Instead, help your child break down the syllabus into small chunks.
Make sure the study schedule includes generous breaks for play, sleep, and recreation. Maybe, a drawing or walking session can also refresh their minds.
2. Make Them Understand Lessons To Handle Exam Pressure
When kids really get a concept, their confidence soars. So, try to help them grasp the reason behind the idea. Even if their answer isn’t perfect, acknowledge the effort.
3. Prioritize Progress, Perfection Comes Later
Did they finish a tricky chapter? Master a math formula? Recognize their progress and celebrate it.
Don’t push for 100% accuracy. Encourage them to handle stress before exam by saying – “You’re improving so much” or “That’s a big step forward”.
4. Handle Exam Stress In A Calm Study Space
Do you know that a clean and quiet corner at your home without distractions can do wonders? Create this space for your child. Let them decorate it with their favorite quotes, drawings, or even a lucky pen. It makes studying feel less like a chore.
5. Cope Up With Exam Pressure Through Proper Nutrition And Sleep
Exams aren’t just about lessons or books. It’s also about their nutrition and sleep schedule. Cut back on chips and sugar, and keep meals balanced. Most importantly, make sure your child gets 8 hours of sleep every day. When the brain rests, they remember better.
6. Mindfulness or Breathing Techniques to Handle Exam Stress
Cultivating mindfulness and meditation are effective ways to handle exam stress. Try a few minutes of deep breathing together. This goes a long way in coping up with anxiety. Make it part of their daily routine, not just exam time.
Conclusion
You’ve got your child admitted to one of the top ICSE schools in Kandivali, and exams will always be a part of their life. It’s all about how you handle exam stress for the little ones which helps them stay mentally stress-free and perform better.
In this guide, we have shared some valuable guidelines to build resilience and confidence in kids. Whether your child is studying under the ICSE board or preparing for internal school tests, it’s your calm presence that sets the tone.
So next time exam season rolls around, remind yourself – you’re not just raising a student, but nurturing a human being. With a little support, empathy, and balance, they’ll cope up with exam pressure with confidence.
FAQs
How to stop panic attacks during exams?
Panic attacks are common in kids due to exam pressure. Show them some breathing techniques to handle exam stress. It involves breathing in slowly, counting four, and exhaling.
How to deal with exam stress during the exam?
Pause and stretch your fingers to cope up with pressure. Take one question at a time. You’ve prepared, so trust that.
What are the symptoms of exam anxiety?
Some of the common symptoms of exam anxiety in children include Tummy aches, fast heartbeat, and feeling blank or jittery. Their brain comes under pressure, and it’s important to address these issues quickly.
