Christmas is in full swing and the New Year is right around the corner, which can only mean one thing: the end of the school quarter or semester. For many kids, this brings endless exams, late-night studying, sleep-walking through final class sessions, and a whirlwind of emotions.
It’s important for your child to practice good habits during this time, not only to keep their minds calm and refreshed, but also to support their body by maintaining energy, staying well-rested, and preparing for exams in healthy, productive ways.
Tips for Students
Create a Schedule
Map out what the next few weeks will look like. When are your exams? What subjects need the most focus? What time of day do you study best? When can you take a day to focus on yourself instead of studying? Is there a prep class you don’t want to miss? Having a visible schedule to refer to makes the process not only less stressful, but more organized and manageable.
Group Study Sessions
While having a quiet, distraction-free environment is important, being surrounded by peers who are going through the same thing can be equally beneficial. It can increase motivation, whereas constant studying alone may lead to negativity or isolation. Group study sessions can also make learning more interactive and help you retain information through conversation and shared knowledge.
Take Breaks
Your brain deserves a break, and so does your body. To keep your mind fresh, move around, relax, and shift your focus. Go for a quick run to get your favorite ice cream, or watch an episode of your favorite show. Even better—step outside for some sunshine or a quick outdoor game. All of these can be helpful parts of a balanced study routine.
Sleep, Hydrate, and Eat
Know when it’s time to turn off your screen and go to sleep. A full night of rest is essential, especially before a big exam. Make sure to hydrate and eat to nourish your body throughout the day. Caring for your body and mind with care will set you up for positive results.
Set Goals
Reflect on the past semester and your strengths. Then create a list of attainable goals. Follow George T. Doran’s S.M.A.R.T. method approach: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Post these goals somewhere visible so they motivate you daily and help you maintain momentum.
Be Kind to Yourself
No matter how prepared you are, things don’t always go as planned. If your scores aren’t what you hoped for, don’t be too hard on yourself. Look back at the progress you’ve made and be proud of your hard work. Knowing that you gave it your best deserves recognition.
Tips for Parents
Emotional Support
Listen to your child when they come to you with stress or concerns, and offer thoughtful advice when needed. Encourage forward-thinking and positivity. Share motivational quotes or passages, and celebrate the progress they’re making. Avoid adding extra pressure and trust that they’re doing their best.
Care Packages
Put together a simple care package, equipped with pencils, study cards, snacks, highlighters, notebooks, or anything else they might find helpful. It does not have to be extravagant—it simply shows that you care and that you’re supporting them.
Respect Their Time
When your child is preparing for challenging exams, it’s important to be supportive while also giving them space. If they aren’t responding as often as usual, allow them to focus on their studies while still sending your positive messages of encouragement. Yes, check in on them to make sure they’re doing okay, but avoid pushing for constant conversation. They need all the study time they can get!