How To Beat Exam Stress

Saurabh Masurkar: Certified Life Coach, Crystal Healer, and Co-Founder of Cold Lava Studio – Tips to Make Exams Less Stressful, More Productive, and Rewarding for Kids

As a Certified Life Coach and Crystal Healer, Saurabh Masurkar, co-founder of Cold Lava Studio, shares his expert tips on how to make exams a less stressful and more productive experience for kids. His approach focuses on stress management techniques, positive reinforcement, and establishing a balanced routine, all aimed at helping children achieve their full potential during exam time.

Every year, parents often restrict extracurricular activities, screen time, and play during exams, believing that this will help their children focus solely on their studies. But how effective is this strategy in reality?

Many parents I know express frustration about their children struggling with focus and memory retention during exam preparation. Here are some important insights that could help improve your child’s study routine and overall exam experience:

1. Creating Regularity and Discipline in Study Routines

Consistency is key when it comes to academic success. Children thrive on routines, and humans have patterns imprinted into their brains since birth, making it crucial to incorporate this structure into their study habits. A sudden disruption in a child’s daily routine during exams can cause anxiety and hinder productivity. Instead, it’s beneficial to gradually introduce discipline and a structured study timetable before exam season, allowing these practices to become a norm rather than a last-minute effort.

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2. Recognizing Achievement and Positive Reinforcement

The brain releases dopamine when we accomplish something, driving us to achieve more. Without this positive reinforcement, a child may turn to instant gratification activities like watching TV or playing video games, which trigger dopamine release and offer a quick sense of reward. To create a motivating study environment, focus on recognizing even small achievements. Rewarding children for hitting study milestones boosts their morale and encourages consistent effort. This will lead to better focus, improved productivity, and reduced exam anxiety.

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3. Making Step-by-Step Changes to Study Habits

It’s important not to make drastic changes during exam season. Sudden changes, such as cutting down on screen time or extracurricular activities, can cause resistance and increase stress levels. Any adjustments to a child’s schedule should be gradual and well-planned. Alongside adjustments, offer rewards and praise for sticking to new study habits. This will help ease the transition and reduce the chances of rebellion or stress.

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4. Prioritize Your Child’s Mental Health

Above all, prioritize your child’s mental well-being during exam time. Encouraging balanced time for study and play is essential for a child’s emotional and mental strength. Ensure your child gets adequate sleep, rest, and time to socialize with friends. Neglecting playtime can lead to feelings of isolation and emotional distress. By striking a healthy balance, your child can maintain focus without compromising their mental health.

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5. Building Resilience Beyond Exams

Finally, aim to create an environment that not only supports academic growth but also fosters emotional resilience and well-being beyond exams. By implementing these simple yet effective strategies, parents can help their children handle exam stress in a positive way and encourage effective studying that leads to academic success and personal growth.

Keywords: Exam stress management, resilience, effective studying, personal growth, emotional well-being.