Exams are a stressful time for everyone – one way you can help is to ensure your teen gets enough sleep during exam time.
READ MORE: SLEEP DURING EXAM TIME – WHY IT’S IMPORTANT
Don’t let exam time change their schedule
A consistent sleep schedule is the best way to make sure your teen’s brain gets enough time to prepare for the day ahead. Instead of staying up late to study, encourage them to adjust their day schedule to allow more study time, and keep their sleep schedule unchanged.
Limit screen time before bed
When study time has ended, encourage your teen to shut down electronic devices before bed and give themselves a break from laptops, tablets and phones. Instead, suggest they read a book or magazine, or take some time to wind down with an activity like stretching or yoga.
Exercise and a balanced diet
Exercising releases endorphins that help to reduce stress and make it easier to fall asleep each night. Encourage your teen to take breaks for exercise, even if it’s just a short walk. Eating a balanced, healthy diet will also reduce the temptation to snack on sugary foods that disrupt sleep, and can give the brain an extra boost.
Try not to stress about not sleeping
It might sound strange, but worrying about not falling asleep can make it harder to do. After a long study session, your teen’s head is probably buzzing with information and they might feel anxiety from the pressure of exams. Let them know, if they can’t sleep it doesn’t mean they should continue studying. Instead, recommend a relaxing activity and
give their brains some time to process all the information they’ve been absorbing until they can sleep.
READ MORE: SLEEP MYTHS BUSTED
FEATURE: CAITLIN GENG PHOTO: STOCK.ADOBE.COM
Source: Parenting - yourfamily.co.za
