Parents can motivate a child to study by building a close relationship, involving them in decisions, setting realistic goals and praising effort over results. Let children learn from mistakes, read together daily, identify their learning style, check their basic reading, Mathematics and listening skills, model a positive attitude to education and provide a peaceful study space.
On exam day, tell your child to eat a slow-release breakfast, arrive early, use the toilet beforehand and avoid negative people. In the exam, they should breathe deeply, skim the paper, underline key words, answer easier questions first and focus on their own pace. Most importantly, remind them your love does not depend on their marks.
Sleep and healthy eating are essential for exams because the brain processes studied material during sleep, and well-rested children are more alert. School-age children need 9 to 11 hours of sleep and teenagers 8 to 10. During exams, avoid fast food and offer regular, smaller meals with whole grains, fruit, vegetables, healthy fats and lean protein.
To prepare for the June exams, set up a quiet study space, start a study plan early to avoid cramming and study in 15 to 30 minute sessions with 5 to 10 minute breaks. Encourage homework, class participation and study methods that suit your child’s learning style, and use revision techniques such as diagrams, past papers and practice testing.
If your child fails exams, avoid blaming yourself and focus on moving forward. Meet the teacher and follow their recommendations, and consider an assessment by an educational psychologist, who can identify issues such as reading comprehension or concentration difficulties. Remedial teaching, which builds skills rather than covering content, may help, and it is never too late to support your child.
Parents can help children get organised for exams by explaining why organisation matters and building routines with a visible calendar, set times for homework and chores and fixed places for schoolbags and stationery. At school, label everything, use colour-coded books and concertina files, record dates straight away, check schoolbags regularly and model organised behaviour yourself.
