A Journey with Your Child

1. A Journey with Your Child ~Preparation for PSLE~

2. A challenging journey Transition into early adolescence Preparing and sitting for a National Examination PSLE Year

3. You & Your Child Your feelings: • Anxiety • Worry • Tension • Helplessness • Hopeful • Disbelief Your child: • May seem indifferent but deep down, they may experience these feelings as well

4. What is Stress in Children? • Stress is any kind of pressure that affects the child in daily life.

5. Is Stress Always Negative? Too Little Stress • Bored • Lethargic • Passive • Indifferent

6. Is Stress Always Negative? Too Much Stress • Lack of concentration • Mental blockade • Irritable • Low self-esteem • Fear • Anxiety • Physical symptoms • Strained relationship

7. Is Stress Always Negative? Optimum Stress • Happy • Confident • Enjoy Challenges

8. How I can help my child cope with Study Stress • Plan a study schedule • Create a conducive study environment • Free from distractions • Good lighting • Proper ventilation • Proper furniture • Sufficient study materials and stationeries

9. How I can help my child cope with Study Stress • Develop your child’s body and mind to cope with stress • Regular exercise • Balanced and nutritious meals • Sufficient rest

10. How I can help my child cope with Study Stress • Ensure your child completes his homework daily • Priority should be given to homework; revision can be factored in after homework is complete • Listen to your child • Take him seriously when he says he cannot do his homework • Work closely with your child’s teacher

11. Possible Challenge on this journey: Digital Distraction • Spend hours playing on video games • Virtually on face book even on school days and nights • Frequent instant mobile phone messaging with peers • Going on the Internet

12. Consequences of Digital Distraction • Take longer time to do their work • Lose concentration and focus • Develop unhealthy lifestyles • Strain relationships • Lack of self-control to favor digital gadgets over school work

13. How do I draw my child away from the Digital World? • Provide your child with alternative activities • Execute tight restrictions on games - actions must be consistent with words • Engage support to address your concern with your child

14. A Balanced Parenting Style on this Journey Set boundaries with your child State what is expected of them clearly State the consequences of acting otherwise Consistent parenting Be patient Be caring Be supportive Give encouragement Listen to them Be sensitive

15. Conclusion • It is the start of a journey – towards P6 and beyond • Encourage your child to develop sense of independence, security and confidence on this journey

16. Thank You