Teenagers and board exams

 The board exam of class 10 is another major milestone in a child’s life. We all understand the importance of these exams. All the more, in this year of 2022, the pattern has changed and the teens are appearing of these exams twice in one year as term 1 and 2. This of course has added to the pressure.

However, in view of the fact that class 10 exams decide the stream they can opt for, it becomes imperative to score the required minimum. The hard work, dedication and sincerity will undeniably provide the results. Parents and students must keep in mind a few things during the preparation period.

Parents:

Be optimistic in your approach: the words of parents become a child’s self talk. So ensure that you are positive about the exams. Avoid usage of any negative words or comments in concern to their preparation, studies or earlier marks scored.  Don’t pressurize for grades, rather encourage them to study hard.

Trust them: each person has own style of studying. May be your child can grasp more in lesser time, or likes to revise at odd hours, or studies with music on. Don’t compare them with anyone else or your past self. Trust them with their instinct. They know well about how much they need to study. So keep motivating.

Help in time management and goal setting: being their first major exam, help them in setting small goals for each day to avoid over whelming. Also it’s better to plan the syllabus and its approach in advance. Practicing everyday will circumvent any last minute scuttle.

Notice signs of anxiety: if child shows any signs of tension or stress such as affected sleep schedule, lost appetite, mood swings, etc, help them. Try relieving them of pressure of good marks. Make them follow a suitable routine of rest, eat and study.

Listen to them: some teens have the habit of speaking everything they have learnt or understood. Be their student and listen to them. This will provide confidence to them. Besides, a normal conversation about anything except exams will be helpful too. Lighten the atmosphere by fun chit chat too.

Be available: not to nag or compel them, but be there to talk, assist in any preparation, explaining concept, listening to their thoughts. Just be present for them. Sometimes, the feel of having someone is comforting and strengthening.

Pep talk: motivate them to focus on talent building and gaining knowledge. This will take them a long way.

Students:

Follow a time table: you know the course outline; you are familiar with the dates of exam. Now create a proper to-do list and stick to it. This will evade any last minute rush or cramming. Submit all required portfolio on time. Be prepared well. Don’t keep anything for the later.

Take a break from social activities: the social platforms will remain there. It’s advised to take a break from following other people on social media and get distracted. Also avoid any gatherings to save your time.

Consistency is the key. Revise whatever is learnt every day or as feasible. Complete the required task for the day without any postponement or avoidance.

Eat and sleep well: a proper routine will help you grasp better and retain it. Eat healthy and take proper sleep. Spare time for hobbies as well. Be active physically and mentally. Spend time in nature or doing something you enjoy. 

 We have expectations from results- as the student or the parent as well as the teacher. It could be the reason to celebrate or may be depressing. But let us not forget that these results are not the foundation stone for success. They do not judge the true capabilities of the examinee neither does it do justice to their skills. It is only to find out the marks scored in particular subject. Not every child can be great at studies. But every child is good at something!