What do semester finals mean to your son? What kind of stress will he be under this semester? How will he handle the pressure? He needs you now just as he did the first day of school. The unknown lies in that test he will be taking. Whether it is in Jr. High, High School, or college, finals are a big undertaking for him and it is possible his future rests on this one test.

I agree, no student’s future should rest on one test. Unfortunately depending on the year of school your son is in or the school he is attending, it can make a world of difference on his GPA and/or his scholarship.

So how can you help your son through this time? Above all, be supportive. This is not the time to lecture him on why he should have been studying all semester long and if he had, he wouldn’t be so nervous now. After it is all said and done, perhaps a gentle reminder that he doesn’t want to find himself in the same situation again this next semester, might be wise. But standing over him yelling and lecturing is only going to increase the stress, add guilt, and inflate the nervousness.

It seems that no matter what age he is, there are basic rules of studying and physical and mental health that should be taken in to consideration. Let us take care of the academic aspect first. The best scenario is to study along the way while the class is in session and not wait until finals. If we have avoided doing this, then have your son prioritize his testing schedule or his term paper schedule. Study for the tests that come first or the test that has a border line pass/fail situation. Have you son concentrate on the study notes that the teacher has given him, not his entire book.

The health aspect of finals week is extremely important. Nothing will ruin a test grade quicker than the lack of sleep, the lack of food or correct food, and the lack of exercise. If your son is still at home with you, you are able to monitor his sleep and food. If your son is away at school, perhaps a care package of nutritious foods will help him and let him know that you are thinking of him. Whether he is with you or not, a simple card or note to let him know that you are supportive of him will lift his spirits. And in case he has forgotten your unconditional love for him, this would be a great time to remind him.

Here are some fantastic links to let you know what your son is going through and helpful hints for you and him during this time.

http://www.askstudent.com/tips/how-to-handle-end-of-semester-final-exam-stress/
http://www.counsel.ufl.edu/selfHelpInformation/stress/end_of_semester_stress.aspx
http://media.www.torchonline.com/media/storage/paper952/news/2005/12/12/Features/Students.Deal.With.Stress.As.Semester.Ends-1998210.shtml

All articles pretty much agree that the ingredients for a successful end of term are sleep, good food, fresh air, meditation, and relaxation.

We wish your son the best in his academic endeavors!