Tick tock
It’s great if your child is organised but in a world where attention spans decrease by the second, you can help him/her develop a plan of action. Sit with them and prepare a special timetable for studying and for the all-important revision. Clinical psychologist Salma Prabhu says, “The attention span of an average student is 40 to 45 minutes, and that’s why most schools and colleges have lectures that are about that long. Do the same while preparing the timetable — devote 45 minutes to studying with concentration and follow it with a break of 10 to 15 minutes.”
Play time
Where most parents falter is while allotting the much-needed recreation time. It’s not just the length of the break, it’s also what your child does during that time that is important. Outdoor games and indoor games at least thrice a week each, should be part of the timetable. Prabhu says, “Many students who are interested in sports or music or other co-curricular activities completely forego what they love to do during exam time. This will invariably lead to a drop in your child’s performance.” Your child may get tired after playing but you must remember that the brain gets tired after studying as well. She adds, “Playing for an hour and a half serves as a much needed energy boost and also brings in ample oxygen for the brain to help it be alert and energetic.”
The breaks in between study schedules are different. Instead of your child killing time in front of the TV, you should encourage them to read a small comic book or play games which would get over in 10 to 15 minutes. Prabhu says, “Loud music or television is not recommended because there are chances the learnt material will be replaced with the lyrics or the events on television. These can block the learning process for the next session of studying.”
House warming
Studying vast portions can take a toll on your child’s ability to grasp the subject. Providing him/her with the right space to study is something you must do as parents. Make your house comfortable for your child to study in. You can make it easier for them by creating a soothing environment. Prabhu says, “Some students experience a slight anxiety and a mild adrenalin rush while studying. Playing soft instrumental music can have a soothing effect on the mind. It reduces anxiety levels and increases concentration. Music by Mozart, Beethoven, Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia, Pandit Shivkumar Sharma or even the Gayatri Mantra can have a powerful effect on theirperformance. You can also try giving your child an almond oil head massage every night.”
Keep it togetherCounselors have been screaming from mountain-tops that exams are a stressful time for kids. As parents, you need to support your kid in their effort and not push them. As much as adolescents might fight to not show it, this is the time they need you the most. Our expert advises, “This is the time to listen to them rather than give advice. If you are one of those who take leave from work for your child’s exams, then ensure that you are a support, not a nag. Maintain a positive environment around the house by creating calmness and serenity, and do not compare them with cousins, friends or siblings.”
Good Vibrations
At Salma Prabhu’s helpline for kids, before the exam most calls she receives are from parents. Don’t constantly instruct your child. “Keep wishing your kid good luck and believing that they will excel in their exams. This won’t just help them, it’ll help calm you too.” If your child is still not studying as the exams inch closer, it’s advisable to see a counselor or a motivator. Opening channels of communication is a lifelong process and cannot be done days before an exam. Our expert concludes, “There are no problem children, sometimes problem teachers and most often problem parents.”
Tips for students
- Revision is essential. Practise writing answers under exam conditions. Take three hour tests, without a break in between, preferably at the same time as that of the exam. This will help your body clock adjust to the examination time and conditions.
- Vary subjects and their difficulty so you don’t get bored or disheartened. Set realistic targets of what you can achieve in the time available.
- Food rich in vitamins and proteins, such as green leafy vegetables and fresh fruits, are a must. The nutrients will help your brain stay sharp. Avoid food with high fat content. Don’t drink a lot of coffee, tea or fizzy drinks. Caffeine will keep you up and reduce the clarity of your thinking.
- Spend time with people who have a positive effect. It will rub off on you. Avoid negative thoughts, such as ‘Everyone else seems better organised, while I’m struggling.’ Challenge such thoughts with positive thinking; for example, ‘I have done well in exams before.’
- Practice deep breathing, meditation and yoga as forms of relaxation. They help your body relax and reduce stress.
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