Help your child with time management

In a study of top-performing medical students, researchers set out to discover just what it was that made them do so well. They quizzed 675 students about their study habits and came up with a list of 10 that most respondents had in common. Topping the list: the students managed their time effectively. Help your child come up with a study plan that will have them working smart not hard and they’ll feel less overwhelmed as exam time draws near.

Set up their environment for success

That same study also found that top-performing students eliminate interruptions that disrupt their work. When your child is studying for an exam, encourage them to leave their phone and gaming console in another room and turn off the TV, radio, and social media notifications on their computer – including WhatsApp and email. Also clear their desk of analogue distractions – like, say, novels, comic books or magazines.

Embrace technology for exam prep

Not everyone can afford a tutor or access to extra lessons. And let’s be honest, if lockdown taught us anything, it’s that not all parents were cut out to be teachers. (Never. Again. Please.) However, e-learning platforms like Vodacom e-School give kids access to top-notch learning support from the comfort of their homes. All they need is a phone, tablet or computer. Vodacom e-School is particularly helpful as it includes content for learners all the way through from Grade R to Grade 12, and adapts as the child progresses, delivering the material in a way that suits their individual learning style and the areas they’re struggling with. Plus, it’s zero-rated, meaning that your child won’t use any data while accessing the platform. 

Give them healthy meals

It may be tempting to snack on junk food while studying and older kids may even turn to caffeinated fizzy drinks to help them stay awake at their desks. But this is counterproductive. Not only do snacks and drinks that are packed with sugar and refined carbohydrate cause energy spikes and subsequent crashes, but research has also found that eating too much sugar is bad for the brain. Among other negative impacts, it inhibits the brain’s ability to form new memories and our ability to learn – definitely not what your child needs when they’re trying to study for an exam! Instead, prepare meals that include a healthy balance of protein, carbohydrates and veggies and make sure they also have some healthy fats (such as olive oil, avo and nuts) and plenty of water – both essential for the brain to function optimally. If your child has a sweet tooth, keep fruit at hand for snacks – the natural sugar in fruit does not have the same negative effect on memory as added sugar.

Schedule active breaks

It’s well known that study breaks are essential but adding some exercise into those breaks can make them even more beneficial. Aerobic exercise in particular has been found to boost memory and recall. Invite your child to take a break from exam preparation and take them for a walk or a jog or go throw a frisbee in the park for half an hour. They’ll return to their desk invigorated, plus there’s a better chance that the information will stick!  

Vodacom e-School

Vodacom e-School has content designed for learners in grades R-12, and, unlike many resources on the web, is based on the South African Curriculum Assessment Policy Statements, so it's taken directly from the school syllabus. Subjects currently available include maths and maths literacy, physical science, life science, accounting and English first an additional language. 

Learners can register online for e-school to create their profile and get started.