Alexander Molteno, Llandudno Primary School principal

Have you ever wondered how you can help your child do well during the busy mid-year exam period?

This year, exams in Western Cape Education Department schools for Grades 10, 11, and 12 start from May 20, 2024, while other grades will start their exams soon after.

Since the school term ends on June 14, everyone – pupils and teachers – has to handle a lot in a short time. As a parent, you have a big role in helping your child get ready for these important tests. Here are some practical steps you can take.

Start early: It’s best to begin exam preparations well in advance. Help your child by setting up a calendar together.

Mark the exam dates and plan backward to schedule study times for each subject.

This helps avoid last-minute cramming and builds confidence as your child feels more prepared.

Create a study-friendly environment: Make sure your child has a quiet and organised place to study.

If your child prefers a bit of background noise, consider soft instrumental music that won’t distract them.

Ensure the study area is well-lit and has all the necessary supplies like pens, paper, and textbooks.

Set goals: Work with your child to set small, achievable goals for each study session.

For example, mastering a set of maths problems or understanding a science concept. Celebrate these small victories to keep motivation high.

Balance support and independence: Engage in regular discussions about your child’s studies.

Ask open-ended questions like, “What subject do you find most challenging and why?” or “How can I help you with your study schedule?”

This shows support without taking over their responsibilities. Encourage them to develop their own study timetable which they can follow.

Manage stress: Teach your child stress-reduction techniques. Simple breathing exercises or short meditation sessions can be very effective. Encourage regular breaks during study sessions to refresh the mind. For example, a five-minute break after every 30 minutes of studying can help maintain focus.

Encourage physical activity: Physical activity is a great stress reliever and can improve concentration. Plan short family walks or quick stretching exercises together during study breaks.

This not only helps your child relax but also strengthens your bond.

Nutrition and sleep: Make sure your child eats healthy meals, especially during study times. Foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, like fish and nuts, can boost brain function.

Ensure they have a good breakfast on the day of the exam. Also, enforce a regular sleep schedule to ensure your child gets enough rest.

Review together: If possible, spend some time reviewing the material with your child. This can help you identify areas where they might need extra help, and discussing the content can reinforce their learning.

Be a role model: Show your child how you manage stress and handle big tasks. Being a positive role model can greatly influence how they handle their exams.

As the exams get closer, remember that your involvement can make a significant difference. By taking these practical steps, you can help your child navigate the exam period with confidence and less stress.

Let’s work together to ensure our kids not only prepare well for their exams but also learn valuable life skills through this process.