Getting ready for GSAT

Recently, a group of parents jokingly told me that GSAT stands for 'giving stress at tender age' and that is what it is for many students. Many parents also say to me that they feel like they themselves are sitting the examination.

Here are some suggestions to parents

1. Manage your anxiety: Children feed on their parents' emotions. High levels of anxiety will only make your child nervous and tense, and when a child is under too much emotional pressure, he or she will not function at his maximum capacity. I am particularly concerned about those mothers referred to as 'helicopter moms' who constantly hover over their children.

2. Give encouragement and support: Help children build their confidence and self-esteem, as this is very important to a child's success.

3. Do not compare your child with others: This is the big trap. Parents love to compare children with older siblings or friends. Each child should be treated as an individual. Remind your child that he or she is special and that you are proud of his or her achievements.

4. Become involved in school: When parents become involved in school, students do better, but be sure not to become so involved that you become a menace to teachers.

5. If your child is having problems: When your child is showing some difficulties learning, seek help. The issue could be emotional or a learning problem, so speak with the child's teacher or guidance counsellor. Sometimes you may need professional intervention. Do not curse, compare or criticise your child; he or she may be trying his or her best, but may have a genuine problem.

6. Monitor homework: Do not jump on your child when you get home tired, hungry and irritable in the evenings. Ensure that both of you are relaxed and create the right environment, free from distractions and quiet, for studying.

7. Do not expect or demand perfection: I saw a child recently who got 95 on an exam and the mother's response was, "Next time get a 100". The child was never praised. Always encourage your child to do his or her best and when this is done give adequate encouragement and praise.

Dr Wendel Abel is a consultant psychiatrist and head, Section of Psychiatry, Dept of Community Health and Psychiatry, University of the West Indies, 977-1108; email: yourhealth@gleanerjm.com.