When exams are near every little thing bothers you. This period is very confusing and preparing for exams is a stressful time for students and parents. The pressure to perform well usually increases anxiety and makes it hard for your child to focus.
But, by adopting some healthy habits exam prep can become a more enjoyable and productive experience.
Top 10 Habits To Stay Fit And Focused
Here are the top 10 habits to help you stay fit and focused during your exam preparation.
1. Stay Calm
Preparation for exams is frustrating but staying calm during it is important. Motivate your child to take deep breaths and stay relaxed. Stress and anxiety can affect your child’s performance so create a positive environment at your home. Always be supportive and remind your child that doing their best is what matters most.
- Start a daily routine that includes study time, breaks, and fun activities. A well-structured routine can reduce stress and increase the productivity of your child.
- Keep your attitude positive and encourage your child to think positively as well. Use can say things like “You can do this,” and “I believe in you,” to boost your child’s confidence.
2. Stay Active
Physical activity is one of the great ways to improve your concentration and reduce stress. Ask your child to take regular breaks during the study sessions to engage in physical activities that they enjoy.
- Suggest activities like a quick walk, run, or a short bike ride. These activities can help your child to clear their mind and refresh their body.
- Combine study sessions with light exercises. For example, they can review flashcards while doing stretches.
3. Sleep Well
A good night’s sleep is important before exams and in daily life as well. Make sure that your child goes to bed early and sleeps for at least 8 hours.
- Continuously remind your child to not leave anything for the last night. All the revisions should be done beforehand because they need to have proper sleep the night before the exam.
- Promote relaxation techniques before going to bed, such as reading a book or listening to calming music.
4. Plan Meals Carefully
Healthy foods are very important for your child’s concentration and energy levels. You need to plan meals full of nutrition especially the day before and on the day of the exam.
- Prepare a balanced dinner high in carbohydrates, like pasta or rice, to provide sustained energy.
- On the day of the exam, make sure that your child has a light but nutritious breakfast, such as oatmeal with fruits or whole-grain toast with peanut butter.
5. Start Exam Day Right
How your child starts their exam day can set the tone for their performance. Create a calm and hopeful atmosphere on the morning of the exam.
- Last-minute studying can increase stress. Tell your child to calmly review their notes if they feel the need.
- Give your child a smile, a hug, and say words of motivation. You can say things like “You’ll do great!” to them. It can make a huge difference.
6. Be Supportive
Your support can mean a lot to your child. Show them that you believe in their abilities and are proud of their efforts no matter what the results are.
- Help them find additional resources if needed, for example asking teachers for extra help, attending study groups, or considering a tutor from an eleven plus centre.
- Be there to listen if your child needs to talk about their fears or concerns.
7. Cut Back on Other Commitments
Try to give your child more time to study and relax by avoiding unnecessary commitments during their exam preparation.
- Adjust their schedules by minimising extracurricular activities.
- Focus on essential activities that contribute to their well-being and academic success.
8. Avoid Extra Caffeine
Caffeine is great to provide a temporary boost but, too much intake of it can be harmful.
- Encourage your child to limit coffee, tea, and energy drinks. Suggest alternatives like herbal teas or water.
- Promote natural ways to boost energy, such as short naps, hydration, and healthy snacks.
9. Find a Study Buddy
When you are studying with friends, it becomes enjoyable and less stressful.
- Arrange study sessions with their friends where they can quiz each other and share study tips. Use resources like 11 plus online games to make the study sessions interactive.
- Combine study sessions with social breaks to relax and recharge.
10. Decide a Post-Exam Reward
Your child will stay motivated when he/she will have something to look forward to
- Plan something fun after the exams, like a movie night, a trip to a favourite restaurant, or some exciting gifts.
- Celebrate their hard work and effort, regardless of the exam results. This can help them feel appreciated and loved.
Applying Healthy Habits
Including healthy habits exam prep strategies can be a game changer in your child’s preparation. Here are a few tips to make sure that these habits are executed properly.
Here are some additional tips to make sure that these habits are effectively implemented:
- Consistent Routine: Stick to a consistent daily routine that balances study, physical activity, rest, and leisure.
- Healthy Snacks: Keep healthy snacks available, like fruits, nuts, and yogurt, to provide energy without the crash from sugary treats.
- Quiet Study Space: Create a quiet, comfortable study space free from distractions to help your child focus better.
- Regular Breaks: Encourage regular short breaks during study sessions to maintain concentration and prevent burnout.
Contribution as a Parent
Some people don’t pay attention to it but parents play a very important role in supporting their children during exam preparation. As a parent, you should:
- Stay Involved: Stay involved in your child’s preparation by regularly checking in on their progress and providing the necessary resources.
- Offer Encouragement: Be their cheerleader. Say words of inspiration and show them that you truly believe in their abilities.
- Provide Resources: If needed, provide additional resources like study guides, tutoring from an eleven plus centre, or access to the best educational games.
Fun and Effective Study Techniques
Making study sessions fun can improve the learning outcomes. Here are some creative study techniques:
- Educational Games: Use the best educational games to make learning interactive. Games can help reinforce concepts and make study time more enjoyable.
- Mind Maps: Create mind maps to visually categorise the information. This can help with memory retention and understanding complex topics.
- Flashcards: Use flashcards for quick revision. They are portable and can be used during short breaks.
Maintaining Balance
Preparation is essential but so is maintaining a balance. Here is how you can keep a healthy balance:
- Scheduled Downtime: Schedule downtime in the study plan. Your child will get enough rest by this.
- Hobbies: Encourage your child to continue their hobbies and interests during exam prep. This provides a break from studying and helps reduce stress.
- Social Activities: Allow time for social activities with friends. Social interactions can boost mood and provide a mental break from studying.
Managing Stress
Managing stress is essential for a productive study environment. Here are some tips that can help you:
- Exercise: Regular physical activity can reduce stress and improve concentration. Activities like yoga, running, or even a brisk walk can benefit your child a lot.
- Breathing Exercises: Teach your child simple breathing exercises to help calm their mind during stressful moments.
- Mindfulness: Practising mindfulness can help your child stay focused and reduce anxiety. Simple mindfulness exercises can be integrated into the daily routine.
Conclusion
The duration of exam preparation doesn’t have to be stressful. Adopt these healthy habits exam prep strategies so your child can stay fit, focused, and ready to do their best. Make sure that you encourage your child to stay calm and active. Provide them with all the necessary resources. Don’t forget that your involvement can make a big difference in their performance.
One of the best options is to take the 11+ mock exams so that your child doesn’t get any surprises on the exam day. Students need to understand the exam and examination hall beforehand in order to give their best shot.
“It’s not stress that kills us, it is our reaction to it.” – Hans Selye
“Encouragement is the oxygen of the soul.” – John Maxwell
“Exercise not only changes your body, it changes your mind, your attitude, and your mood.” – Unknown
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