Overcoming the stress of the end of the school year

3 key indicators of stress

Knowing the 3 key indicators of stress will help you help your teen, including:

1. Anxiety-provoking thoughts: anticipating the worst, dramatic scenarios, etc.
2. Physical symptoms: stomach ache, sweating, palpitation, etc.
3. Anxious behaviors: crying, screaming, isolating, etc.

My child is stressed, what should I do?

If your child is displaying one or more of these behaviours, you can help them put their feelings into words by taking the time to listen and reassure them. It is also important to validate their emotions and respect their rhythm. Encourage them to trust themselves. Try to help them find their own solutions that make them feel comfortable.

Tools for managing stress

You can offer a stress ball or a tangle. Some people choose breathing techniques or meditation instead. Sports, art, and extracurricular activities are also good ways to relieve stress. Talk to your teen about what works best for them.

Your teen should start preparing several weeks in advance to feel prepared for exams.

Preparing for exams

Your teen should start preparing several weeks in advance to feel prepared for exams. Make sure your child listens, concentrates, and participates in class. For example, some students retain information better when they take notes or ask questions. To properly organize their study time, your teen can write down the dates of upcoming exams and due dates in an agenda or on a calendar. It is also important to find out which concepts to review. It is best to start studying as early as possible and plan a study schedule to reduce stress.

Studying effectively

Once your child is well prepared for study periods, there are some tips that can help them study more effectively. For example, it is best to study for short periods of time on a regular basis. It' s also important to plan for breaks between study periods to stay focused. Studying the most difficult concepts first so that they can seek help when needed (teacher, parent, friend, tutor, etc.) can also be helpful. Remind your child that they have the right to make mistakes and to be patient. Varying the ways and places of studying can also be good ways to keep them motivated!

Get your body moving

All year long, it is important to encourage your child to move around to stay fit and focused. This is even more true during exam time when stress increases. All it takes is 60 minutes of physical activity a day (e.g., dancing, swimming, running, biking, field hockey). Physical activity is also better than screen time.

Eating well for good health

Eating is another important part of maintaining good physical and mental health. Offer your child a colourful and varied diet. And don't forget to eat breakfast every morning to stay focused. Fruits and vegetables are recommended in large quantities. All sweet foods (e.g., soft drinks, fruit juices) should be reduced.

Sleep to stay focused

Young people need to get enough sleep to be able to function. It is recommended that young people sleep between 8 and 12 hours a night. A good night's sleep allows them to stay alert and focused throughout the day. If they are feeling more tired, invite them to take some time to relax and unwind as needed. Why not try a yoga session with them at home? If relaxation isn't there, the fun will be!

Good luck everyone!