Summer is quickly approaching which can bring up mixed emotions for students. There is the excitement for warm weather, field trips, prom, and the end of the school year. But this also means the stress of final exams, end of the year projects, and the anticipation of finding out grades and GPA for the year. Sometimes, the stress can be unmanageable, overwhelming, and make it difficult to even feel excited about the good times that come with the end of the year. 

As a parent, it is important to be mindful of the stress that your child may be experiencing during this time of year in providing support and not placing excessive pressure on academic performance. 

During this process it is important to celebrate the small victories. Oftentimes, if a student gets a bad grade or does poorly on a project this becomes the focus, causing the good grades or completion of a hard project to get lost. This can make the student feel increased performance pressure or feel ashamed of their work. Take the time to acknowledge and celebrate when your child takes time to study for a test, finishes a difficult project, or receives a good grade. By providing positive reinforcement it can help decrease pressure and increase productivity. It is also important to encourage fun activities for your child to take breaks, this helps to avoid burn out and build up of stress. Encourage your child to make plans with friends or to take time outside away from studying. If possible, plan a family outing to somewhere your child enjoys, have a family game night, take a study break for a dessert treat, or watch a movie together. 

The following are some tips for students to embrace at the end of the year to manage their stress. (Parents, it is good to take note of this to encourage your child to follow them):

• Stay organized: Sometimes, it can be hard to keep track of the ever-building assignments, tests, and projects so it is important to find an organization system that works for you! Some people find that making a “to-do” list can be a helpful tool, especially the satisfaction of crossing something off that list once it is completed. Having a color-coded calendar can also bode for organization. Play around with it and see what fits best for you.

• Take breaks: It is important to keep your mind and body healthy by taking breaks during schoolwork. Set a timer for ten to twenty minutes and step away from whatever it is you are working on; this can help you to destress and recuperate your mind! Study breaks include, but are not limited to deep breathing, stepping outside, meditation, watching a quick show, or eating!

• Get sleep: We have all heard the phrase of “pulling an all nighter” where you stay up all night to finish a project, but this is not a healthy or productive way to complete tasks. Your mind and body need natural energy and fuel from sleep. Set a time each night to put a stop to your schoolwork to unwind and then go to bed.

• Be proud of yourself: Getting through the school year is tough, it is important to be proud of yourself for the work you’ve completed and all that you have achieved!!

If you or your student need some additional support navigating end-of-school-year stress, click here.