Episode 146: Don't Snap: How to Stay Calm When Exam Stress Runs High

Huddle Wisdom: Navigating Exam Season

 Exams are looming, and the pressure cooker is on. Not just for our kids, but for parents too. In this episode of Huddle Wisdom, Dr. Davin Tan shares how to help your family navigate this stressful time with grace, calm, and connection. This isn't about micromanaging study sessions; it's about shifting from being a performance manager to being a calm captain.

 Key Takeaways

• The Myth of Pressure: The idea that pressure equals performance is a myth. When stress tips into anxiety, it hijacks your child's ability to think clearly. The brain's survival mode takes over, not the logical, problem solving part.

• Your Calm is Contagious: A child's nervous system co regulates with yours. The single most powerful thing you can do is to regulate yourself. Create a calm environment, even if it's just a few minutes of quiet time together.

• Reframe Anxiety: Anxiety isn't the enemy; it's a signal that something matters. Help your child name their feelings without judgement, which separates the emotion from their identity.

• Connection Over Correction: Your child's worth is not tied to a grade. Your job is to be their safe harbour and corner, not just their coach. Your presence, like making a snack or just sitting nearby, is often more supportive than any academic advice.

• For Students: The episode also has a special message for students. Don't look at the big picture, work in small chunks. Sleep is not wasted time; it's when your brain stores what you've learned. And remember, feeling nervous doesn't mean you're doomed; it just means you care.