Tips for parents

1. Even if your child has a superior IQ, remember that a high level of intelligence is not enough to achieve success.

Many kids with a lower IQ do much better in life because they are equipped with other qualities like a higher level of self-motivation, a calm state of mind and peace within.

So help your child imbibe these qualities by encouraging and motivating him/ her constantly. If you haven't been doing this right from their childhood, a good time to start would be now.

2. If your child is capable of scoring 70 per cent, don't push him/ her to get 90 per cent. Many a time, ambitious parents compare their children's performance with those of the neighbours.

And God forbid if the latter scores a whole lot better.

Make a realistic appraisal of your child's capabilities and accept it.

3. Remember, your child is already tense because of the intense competition. So make sure you express your appreciation for how s/ he is working hard.

4. Don't live your unachieved dreams through your child. Give him/ her space to create and live his/ her own.

5. Make sure your child eats well and does not skip meals. Children tend to snack on wafers and noodles during exams, but these do not cater to their nutritional needs.

6. Keep an eye on your child for symptoms of acute stress, like headaches, stomach problems, nausea and sweating of the palms.

If these start manifesting on a regular basis, seek professional counselling from either the school counsellor or a psychologist.