Six tips for parents to help children relax before PSLE
PSLE is around the corner and anxious parents are trying to figure out the best ways to help their children as much as possible.
Here are six tips for parents to help their children relax before the exams from Sept 29 to Oct 4.
1.Enough sleep
Make sure that the child sleeps at least eight hours in the days leading up to PSLE and during the exam days. According to Ms Anita Wilks, senior consultant from Lorna Whiston School, lack of sleep can lead to decreased attentiveness, poorer short-term memory, inconsistent performance and delayed response time.
2. Healthy eating
Provide the child with healthy meals and snacks to raise energy levels. Limit intake of fast food and encourage the child to eat fruits, vegetables and drink plenty of water. "This will ensure that the child has high energy levels and is well-hydrated during the exam period," says Ms Wilks.
3. Relax
Relax with family. Refresh the child's mind with a walk or just unwind in front of the television. On the day before the exam, take the child out for a meal and avoid discussing about the upcoming papers. This will ensure that the child does not suffer from last-minute nerves, according to Young Parents
4. Review only the important notes
Go through the brief study notes and abstain from last minute-cramming as it only increases stress levels. Only the most important notes should be reviewed. Also, according to Mr Alan Yip, founder of Mind Edge, the child must not try to learn anything new in the hours immediately before the exam as it will only confuse them.
5. Preparation
Make sure the child has all the necessary stationery items and other things which are required for the exams. This will help them to stay calm and avoid getting flustered when things are missing.
6. Don't overanalyse
Once an exam is over, do not waste time and energy trying to analyse it. This will make the child demoralised, according to The Asian Parent. Put each exam behind you and instead focus on the next one.
The ultimate aim of PSLE should be for the children to perform to the best of their ability, rather than outrun their peers. Hence, it is important to ensure that they are calm and relaxed before the exam so that they can perform at their optimum level.
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