{"id":36755,"date":"2024-01-24T11:13:28","date_gmt":"2024-01-24T09:13:28","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/getitmagazine.co.za\/highway-berea\/?p=36755"},"modified":"2024-01-22T11:18:20","modified_gmt":"2024-01-22T09:18:20","slug":"grade-12-survival-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/getitmagazine.co.za\/highway-berea\/blog\/2024\/01\/24\/grade-12-survival-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"Grade 12 survival guide"},"content":{"rendered":"

So your child has made it to Grade 12. That final year of stress and tears \u2013 for most \u2013 before they head off for life in the real world. But, how will they survive? How will you as a parent survive?<\/p>\n

While this academic phase can be daunting and often an emotional rollercoaster, as learners are submerged in study materials and parents grapple with providing adequate support, Dr Linda Meyer, of The Independent Institute of Education, shares some practical advice for all.<\/p>\n

\u201cParents strive tirelessly to ensure their children\u2019s success within this challenging panorama,\u201d says Dr Meyer, adding that today\u2019s complex times amplify these challenges.<\/p>\n

\u201cVirtual parenting platforms abound with stories from parents and guardians of Grade 12 learners, with calls for insight and advice revealing parents\u2019 collective uncertainty on how best to be a pillar of strength and guidance for their children.\u201d<\/p>\n

Here are a few mantras parents should adopt:<\/em><\/p>\n

Self-Awareness First:<\/strong> Parents should be acutely aware of their emotions and manage them effectively. This stability enables them to be supportive rather than inadvertently adding to their child\u2019s pressures.<\/p>\n

Adopt a Broader Perspective:<\/strong> While Grade 12 exams are significant, they represent just a chapter in a child\u2019s expansive educational story. Beyond this point, there are myriad avenues for growth and learning, and this understanding can help diffuse undue stress.<\/p>\n

Dr Meyer says parents can provide meaningful support in two ways: through practical facilitation, and emotional anchoring.<\/p>\n

Practical Facilitation<\/strong><\/p>\n

Holistic Schedule Design: A comprehensive view of the exam timeline can aid in collaboratively creating a balanced study schedule. This aids in pacing study sessions and reducing last-minute panics.<\/p>\n

Authentic Test Conditions: Mimicking actual exam conditions at home can offer insights into areas needing further focus and, equally importantly, help students become familiar with the conditions of the physical exam environment.<\/p>\n

Guided Independence: Being available to address queries is essential, but so is promoting autonomous learning. Encourage students to think critically and find solutions.<\/p>\n

Digital Discipline: Technology can be a double-edged sword. Setting ground rules is pivotal to ensure digital devices aid, rather than disrupt, study schedules.<\/p>\n

Emotional Anchoring<\/strong><\/p>\n

Crafting a Serene Sanctuary: A home\u2019s atmosphere can be a game-changer. A serene, clutter-free environment fosters concentration and mental clarity.<\/p>\n

Holistic Wellness: Beyond rigorous studying, integrating activities like meditation, short walks, or even hobbies can mentally rejuvenate students. Adequate rest, outdoor engagements, a nutritious diet, and avoiding excessive caffeine or sugar are paramount.<\/p>\n

Empathetic Dialogue: Establish an environment where students can vocalise their fears, aspirations, or academic challenges. Active, non-judgmental listening can be therapeutic.<\/p>\n

Celebrate Every Milestone: Recognising the results, effort, dedication, and small achievements can tremendously boost a child\u2019s self-esteem and drive.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

Practical tips for students<\/strong><\/p>\n

Dr Meyer says there are a number of strategies which, if incorporated into the weeks leading up to the final exams, can boost a student\u2019s wellbeing and academic success.<\/p>\n

Establish a Routine<\/strong><\/p>\n