Tips to help support your matriculant during the final exams

By: Natasha Archary

It’s the final stretch of your matriculant’s schooling career, and this time of year is full of high tension, stress and anxiety as your child takes on this milestone.

This time of year is not only stressful for matriculants but can be an equally dreadful time for parents, siblings and other family members too.

Creating a stress-free environment for your matriculant involves providing support and motivation but at the same time giving them the space they need to tackle this hurdle on their own.

With the final exams underway, here are a few tips to deal with exam stress so it doesn’t overwhelm both you and your child.

Keep communication open

It’s important and necessary to take an interest in your child’s studies and general wellbeing. Don’t just be focused on how they’re progressing through but let your child know they can always turn to you, even if it’s for a quick vent session.

Constantly reassure your child

While these exams are important to explore options with regards to higher education and determines a career path, it’s not the end of the world if your child doesn’t pass with the expectations you both had.

The exams can always be taken over and this should be the reminder you give your child, so they don’t go into the final exams with the belief that they would be failing if they don’t pass strongly.

Don’t place an emphasis on how many distinctions (A’s) your child should achieve, instead encourage that they do their best, which is enough.

Set up a structured study timetable that you can monitor

Having a structured study timetable sets healthy boundaries for your child and the rest of the family.

Knowing when to keep noise levels down whilst your matriculant is studying, resting or taking a break can help reduce stress for him or her.

A timetable will also make it easier for you to advocate for breaks, and supervise whether your child is pushing themselves too hard.

Support doesn’t mean you become a helicopter parent

Know your boundaries and trust that your matriculant knows what is expected of them. There’s no need for you to be a helicopter parent, constantly hovering over your child.

This will only lead to further frustrations which you want to avoid. Take a step back and allow your child to come to you if he/she needs help.

Provide brain food

Make sure your child is eating well during their studies for the final exams and on exam day. “Brain foods” that are rich in antioxidants aid concentration and help your child to focus better whilst studying or writing the exam.

Snacks should be kept light and nutritious to keep them full for longer and boost overall mood.

Guard your matriculant from the effects of stress by also encouraging that they get out of the house for some exercise, change of scenery and pace during breaks.

A quick 15 minute walk around the house or block can stimulate the release of “happy” endorphins by releasing serotonin which reduces stress.