Customary schooling and regular subject sessions are integral to the academic journey of every child. This learning process culminates in evaluations—examinations—designed to assess a student’s grasp of concepts. Be it through oral vivas or written tests, exams have been a globally accepted method of ensuring students become literate and acquire knowledge.

Traditionally, exams were viewed as a straightforward measure of competence. However, in today’s world, their arrival often signals the onset of significant stress and pressure—not just for the students but also for their families. The preparation for exams has become a high-stakes affair, almost akin to gearing up for a battle.

Personal Reflections on Exam Pressure

Looking back at my own school days, I remember how exams used to give me sleepless nights and jitters. Despite planning meticulously—breaking down the syllabus, organizing my study hours, and preparing to the best of my ability—the pressure was palpable.

Interestingly, my parents were not overly involved in my exam preparations. They trusted me to manage my studies and handle the stress independently. At the time, I wondered why they were so hands-off, especially during critical moments like exams.

Now, 20 years later, as a mother to two children, I find myself in a similar situation but with a vastly different approach. Today, I am deeply involved in my children’s academic lives. When exams approach, especially final exams in March, I often worry more than my son does. This sometimes leads me to take on responsibilities that should ideally be his, inadvertently allowing him to rely on me more than he should.

Reflecting on my parents’ hands-off approach, I’ve realized that they were teaching me valuable life skills. By not micromanaging my studies, they allowed me to develop independence, resilience, and the ability to learn from my mistakes. #  Let’s All Release Examination Pressure

Why Exams Matter

Examinations are necessary as they evaluate a student’s understanding of academic subjects and ensure they are prepared for the next level. Regular, planned study hours leading up to exams give students an edge, enabling them to retain information more effectively and perform better.

However, it’s crucial to draw a fine line between encouraging good performance and putting undue pressure on children. The latter can lead to anxiety, burnout, and a negative association with learning.

Understanding and Mitigating Exam Pressure

Recently, I attended a special session organized by My City for Kids in collaboration with psychologist Mrs. Mimansa Tanwar and a campaign by Mirinda titled “#ReleaseThePressure.” The discussion centered on the sources of exam stress and how parents and educators can help alleviate it.

Parental Pressure: Is It Necessary?

Many parents, myself included, feel compelled to push their children to excel academically. While the intention is often rooted in care and concern, it’s essential to recognize when this pressure becomes counterproductive.

Parental and peer pressure during exam times can lead to symptoms of stress in children, such as:

• Overeating or undereating
• Anxiety and nervousness
• Withdrawal or a desire to isolate themselves

Instead of adding to their stress, parents can adopt strategies to help children manage pressure effectively:

1. Offer Reassurance and Support:
   Simple phrases like, “I’m here for you” or “You’re doing your best, and that’s enough” can make a world of difference to a child’s confidence.

2. Encourage Breaks:
   If your child appears overwhelmed, encourage short breaks or outdoor activities. A walk, a quick game, or even a lighthearted conversation can help them reset.

3. Balanced Nutrition:
   Provide nutritious meals to keep their bodies energized and minds focused. Avoid heavy or processed foods that may make them lethargic.

4. Address Weak Areas:
   Support your child with subjects they find challenging. If necessary, consider hiring a professional tutor to ease the learning process for both you and your child.

Practical Steps to Create a Healthy Study Routine

To ensure children approach exams with confidence, it’s essential to establish a healthy and sustainable study routine:

1. Spread Study Hours:
   Rather than cramming, encourage your child to study a little every day. This gradual approach helps with better retention and reduces last-minute stress.

2. Set Realistic Goals:
   Break the syllabus into manageable chunks and create a timetable that balances study time with relaxation.

3. Incorporate Relaxation Techniques:
   Teach your child simple breathing exercises or meditation to manage anxiety. These techniques can help them stay calm and focused during exams.

4. Minimize Comparisons:
   Avoid comparing your child’s performance with that of their peers. Each child is unique, with their own strengths and areas for improvement.

5. Foster Open Communication:
   Create an environment where your child feels comfortable discussing their fears and challenges. Listening without judgment goes a long way in building trust and reducing stress.

Changing Perspectives on Exam Success

The #ReleaseThePressure campaign sheds light on the importance of prioritizing a child’s mental and emotional well-being over academic achievements. Watching their video, which explores how children feel under constant scrutiny to perform, was an eye-opener for me.

The campaign encourages parents to pledge to:

• Accept their children for who they are
• Avoid nagging them to study continuously
• Stop comparing them with other kids

These pledges serve as a reminder that success isn’t just about high marks—it’s about nurturing happy, confident, and resilient individuals.

The Bigger Picture: Life Lessons Through Exams

Exams are not just a test of knowledge—they’re also an opportunity for children to develop essential life skills like time management, perseverance, and self-discipline. As parents, our role is to guide them through this process, providing support without overshadowing their independence.

Looking back, I’m grateful for the lessons my parents taught me by giving me the space to manage my exams on my own. It wasn’t easy, but it helped me grow into a self-reliant and confident individual. Now, as I navigate my role as a parent, I strive to find the right balance between involvement and independence for my children.

Final Thoughts

Exam season will always bring its fair share of stress, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By fostering a supportive environment, setting realistic expectations, and emphasizing the value of effort over results, we can help our children approach exams with confidence and clarity.

Let’s pledge to release the pressure—not just for our children’s sake, but for our own. Together, we can create a culture where learning is celebrated, stress is minimized, and every child is empowered to shine in their own unique way.