During this time of the year, most students, especially those preparing for the Class 10 and Class 12 Board Exams, avoid social engagements to focus solely on their studies. Such an action is a reaction given the strain and pressure involved in these exams. Board examinations are stressful, but the proper preparation along with the right attitude may bring out success in exams. Though rigorous focus is needed to achieve academic success, keeping a healthy balance, and being socially connected is just as essential.
Board exams are a cumulative test of the student’s knowledge and understanding of the curriculum. Furthermore, scores in board exams are often considered in college and university admissions; good scores lead to entry into better institutions and preferred courses. The stream selected after 10th grade science, commerce, or humanities shapes future career opportunities, thus underlining the importance of board examinations.
Parents often wonder how to reduce board exam stress in their children. It is crucial to note that most of this stress is caused by the undue emphasis placed on these tests. The pressure to succeed can be intense, creating an unfavorable learning environment for pupils. As a result, many teenagers feel “board exam stress,” which can cause anxiety, irritability, and sleep difficulties.
There might be an improvement in both mental and physical status or may present through diverse symptoms of change. Common symptoms of board exam stress include
In an age where distractions are so constant, when social media captures the attention of teenagers, board exam preparation is the most challenging thing. Motivating them to study may seem quite tricky. It is just that abundant distractions have engaged many of them in virtual activities, which usually come at the cost of actual opportunities.
Motivation is the force that drives us to act in ways that help us grow and succeed, but even the best motivation is only as effective as the method used to employ it. Forcing your child into a career or field because you think it would be good for them may boomerang eventually. Sometimes, it is better to connect their education with their passions.
Guide them on how education can enable them to reach their desired future. Explore their career interest and key subjects involved in those fields. Encourage them to relate everything they are taught to the real world. Explain to them how concepts learned in the class help in real life, such as applying geometry when trying to find directions. You could explain how the streets in your neighborhood are parallel or perpendicular or how the main road connects to your street at a specific angle. Making it relevant to learning can increase their interest and engagement.
Eliminate distractions to establish the perfect learning environment. Prepare a quiet, comfortable space with minimal distractions, such as a phone and television. Ensure that their study space is clean and well-organized; a clean space improves focus. Ensure that they have appropriate comfort: proper lighting, good seating arrangements, and, if helpful, soothing background music for better concentration.
Board exams can be stressful for teens; however, using the right strategy, they may easily overcome the phase. Advise your child to divide the syllabus into smaller manageable chunks and then work out a plan with time slots for each subject. Do not forget to have regular breaks so that the teen gets some time to rest and relax. Instruct your child to prioritize topics that seem hard and dedicate some extra time to difficult concepts. Encourage consistent and focused studying over last-minute cramming for better retention and understanding.
Kids should get seven to eight quality hours of sleep every night because they enhance memory, concentration, and overall health. Pay attention to their diet: make sure that, apart from healthy fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, junk food and caffeine intake is kept minimal. Constant physical activity like exercise or sporting activities helps youngsters reduce stress while enhancing their moods.
Some tension during the tests is normal, but it should not become overwhelming and affect their mental or physical health. In such cases, one ought to seek professional help from a counsellor or therapist.