Exams can be a stressful time for students, and it’s crucial to find a balance between studying and relaxation to ensure they perform at their best. As parents, you play a vital role in helping your child manage their stress and recharge their batteries. Here are some practical tips and techniques to help your child relax and maintain a healthy study routine.
Why relaxation is important
Relaxation is essential for several reasons:
- Reduces stress: Regular breaks and relaxation techniques can help reduce stress levels .
- Improves concentration: Taking time to relax can improve focus and concentration when they return to studying .
- Enhances memory: Relaxation can aid in better retention of information .
- Boosts overall well-being: A balanced routine can improve mental and physical health, leading to better performance in exams .
Tips for Parents
Encourage regular breaks
Encourage your child to take regular breaks during their study sessions. The Pomodoro Technique, which involves studying for 25 minutes followed by a 5-minute break, can be very effective. Longer breaks can be taken after several cycles. The Pomodoro Technique is merely a concept, so don’t get too hung up on the timings. Remember every learner is different. The concept is sound: concentration for a certain amount of time, followed by a break, followed by some form of retrieval practice.
Promote physical activity
Physical activity is a great way to reduce stress and boost mood. Encourage your child to take short walks, do some light stretching, or even participate in a favourite sport .
Create a relaxing environment
Help your child create a relaxing study environment. This can include:
- A comfortable chair and desk
- Good lighting
- Minimal distractions
- A tidy workspace
Encourage healthy sleep habits
Sleep is crucial for cognitive function and memory. Ensure your child gets plenty of sleep, ideally 8-10 hours per night. Encourage a regular sleep schedule by going to bed and waking up at the same time every day .
Limit screen time
Screens can be stimulating and interfere with sleep. Encourage your child to avoid screens at least an hour before bedtime. Instead, suggest relaxing activities like reading a book or listening to calming music .
Promote relaxation techniques
Simple relaxation techniques can be very effective:
- Deep breathing: Teach your child deep breathing exercises to help calm their mind .
- Meditation: Simple meditation practices can be very effective in reducing stress .
- Yoga: Gentle yoga can help relax both the body and mind .
Note: Study Skills Zone are not experts in these techniques. It is best to seek professional advice from specialists in these disciplines before attempting them.
Simple relaxation solutions
- Take a long bath: A warm bath can be incredibly relaxing and help relieve muscle tension.
- Hot milky drink: While the science is debatable, many find a hot milky drink before bed to be soothing and helpful for promoting sleep.
- Listening to music: Calming music can help reduce stress and improve mood.
- Spending time outdoors: Fresh air and nature can be very rejuvenating .
Conclusion
Helping your child find a balance between study and relaxation is key to their success during exam season. By incorporating these simple techniques and promoting a healthy lifestyle, you can support your child’s well-being and academic performance. Remember, relaxation isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity.
For more tips and resources, visit Study Skills Zone.
References
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4744121/
- https://www.apa.org/topics/stress
- https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/articles/202011/how-memory-works
- https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/exercising-to-relax
- https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/exercise/exercise-health-benefits/
- https://www.sleepfoundation.org/children-and-sleep/how-much-sleep-do-children-need
- https://www.sleepfoundation.org/sleep-hygiene/healthy-sleep-tips
- https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/tips-for-everyday-living/relaxation/
- https://www.headspace.com/meditation/meditation-for-stress
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/nhs-fitness-studio/yoga-with-lj/
- https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/tips-for-everyday-living/nature-and-mental-health/