Exam Time !! 10 exam tips for parents: How to help your child study

Here’s how you can support children during exams:

1) Be familiar with your child’s exam schedule

We know you’re a busy parent, which is why some advance planning helps. Don’t leave it to your son or daughter to inform you of their exam timings. Get a printout and pin it up where you can all see it and keep an online copy for reference, if required. This way, you know when they need to be dropped off at the exam centre.

2) Avoid arguments

If the bed isn’t made, you’re within your rights to point it out, but avoid prolonged arguments over it for now, since your child needs to focus on their exams. It’s a team effort and the family has to pull together and make sure all energies are devoted to the task at hand.

3) Have meals with the family

Chances are, your child is cooped up in their room for long hours preparing for their exams. Make sure they have their meals with the family, so that they get a break from the monotony of constant studying. Keep the dining table conversation light, so that your child feels refreshed.

4) Avoid burdening them with your stress

We know you’re stressed, probably even more than your child. But when the exam date nears, it’s time to back off and let the child be calm. If you’re still wracked by nerves, vent to a partner or a friend. Your child is stressed enough and can do without you adding to it.

5) Make sure they get a good night’s sleep

A good night’s sleep is very important. Check your child’s timetable to ensure they have enough time for a well-earned sleep. This will calm their nerves and keep them alert on the big day.

6) Keep away from digital distractions

It’s difficult to steer clear of digital devices completely, but it’s critical to do so during exam time.o

7) Incentives and bribes

There’s a fine line between an incentive to do well and outright bribery. Your child should be motivated to put their best foot forward in their exams, without you offering a bribe, such as an expensive gift. However, a family meal or outing is a good idea after the exam as it will also help take the pressure off.

8) Be a sounding board

Ask them how their exam went, but withhold judgement. Offer to be a listening post, without blaming them for anything they’ve got wrong in the answer sheet. Be encouraging about the remaining tests and keep them hopeful about the outcome. Let them know you’re there to fofer support, whatever the outcome.

9) Be available

Make time for your child, particularly during the important papers. If possible, if you have leave left, inform your office and take it during this time so you can be around your child. Stay aware of their needs, whether it’s a spot of revision, a cup of coffee to perk them up or just being available to address any concerns.

10) Maintain a balanced diet and routine

Whether it’s the daily glass of milk or almonds, make sure your child isn’t skipping meals and is eating on time. Nutrition plays an important role in keeping energy levels up.

 Thank you

Regards,

Parinita Sharma

What point should prepare for a meeting with your child’s teacher

Let us first try to understand what is parent teacher meeting exactly is ?

The definition of parent teacher meetings. According to Wikipedia, a parent-teacher conference, parent-teacher interview, parent-teacher night or parents’ evening, is a short meeting or conference between the parents and teachers of students to discuss a child’s progress at school and find solutions to academic or behavioural problems if any.

As the definition states, a parent teacher meeting is essentially held so that the teacher can meet the parents personally and share feedback on their child’s performance for a particular period. The teacher shares positive points, areas where parents need to focus on to improve performance, suggestions on the child’s passion and ways to help pursue them.

Most parents fear going for a parent teacher meeting as they feel anxious about their child’s progress and expect the worst. Remember that if you are invited to a conference, it doesn’t mean your child is in trouble! You and the teacher both want the very best for the child. You can help your child by working together as a team.

Few tips parents can follow when going for a parent teacher meeting:

Before the PTA meeting:

Speak to you child about school.

Check with them whether they are enjoying school.

Make a list of things you would like to talk about with the teacher.

Check with your child if there is anything specific they would like the parent to discuss with the teacher.

During the PTA meeting:

Be on time.

Ask the important questions first.

Be a good listener and listen to the feedback the teacher is giving.

Parents should be open to the teacher’s feedback as he or she only has the best intention. Parents should not be on the defensive about their child.

Ask the teacher ways in which they can help their child improve at home.

Always thank the teacher for the efforts they take to help the child learn in the best way possible.

After the PTA meeting:

Speak to your child and share the positive feedback received.

Congratulate them on their achievements.

Share the feedback shared by the teacher.

Share the roadmap you and their teacher has defined for them.

Keep in touch with the teacher occasionally.

At the end of the day, parents should not compare their child’s performance to that of another student. Children learn differently and while some are auditory, others may be visual or kin-aesthetic learners; it is important for parents to understand this and teach them accordingly. This will help the kids learn faster and information will be retained for a long time.