Life skills apply to all ages of children and adolescents in school
I am a single parent. My son is 15 and has been preparing for his 10th exams. Though he is working quite sincerely, I still feel he is inadequate in his planning and not able to maintain a proper routine. Lately he avoids communicating with me. How do I help him?
Your worry is indeed accurate and appropriate to the situation. With expectations and comparisons running high, parental support and warmth outlasts any other source of happiness during these times. Exams, especially board exams are a main source of stress for teenagers. Therefore, guardians should provide the right kind of motivation and a conducive environment at home. Do not constantly nag him or reprimand to study. So as a parent, send the signal that results don’t bother you. Talk to him affectionately and tell him you would support him not matter what the result, but he should put in all his effort for a successful career ahead. This would help reduce stress and increase his chances of performing better.
You can also help him organize his study schedule. Ask him to make key points of every chapter before examinations. Encourage simple breathing exercises; with slow, deep and silent breathing just about 5-10 minutes a day. Good amount of oxygen intake will definitely promote good learning. Ensure the he has Green leafy vegetables, fruits, salads and pulses. Small meals during exams help to be alert and assist in getting restful sleep. Moderate play and even occasional chatting is welcome. Your child needs you as a good communicator. Having meals, watching television and going for walk together are indeed very helpful. A stable schedule in the family does wonders in life management.
I am in class 9th. I was told that life skills education is going to be a part of our course curriculum. I want to know more about life skills and how can they help in improving our studies and other aspects.
I am happy to hear that students are taking interest in Life Skills Education. In keeping with the understanding that the Indian Adolescents are at the cross roads of an old culture, globalization and academic stress, Life Skills Education is being introduced in schools to improve the students’ psychosocial competency. It aims to provide students with strategies to make healthy choices that contribute to a meaningful life.
Life skills are applicable for all ages of children and adolescents in school. However, the age group targeted is mainly 10 -19, adolescent years, since young people of this age group seem to be most vulnerable to behaviour related health problems. The method used in teaching of life skills builds upon the social learning theory and how young adults learn from the people around them. The author is a senior psychiatrist and in charge, Institute of Life Skils and Mental Health Promotion, Moolchand Med City, New Delhi. Send him and email at hteducation@hindustantimes.com. marked Dr Nagpal