4 tips for reducing school stress

The Common Core State Standards are more challenging than previous educational benchmarks, and they come with standardized testing. In the spring of 2015, students will have to take exams aligned with the Common Core that measure their knowledge of the Standards. This, on top of difficult class work, can cause students to feel stressed about school. When people are stressed, their bodies go into fight or flight mode, and being in that state for prolonged periods of time can cause health issues. Fortunately, your children can reduce stress to stay healthy and do well in school. Here are a few strategies your kids can use to stay calm no matter what's going on in class:

1. Stay organized
Your children may feel overwhelmed if they have a lot on their plates, like doing Common Standards test prep and homework and attending after-school activities. In that case, looking at all those things can cause your kids to feel stressed. Help them organize their to-do lists so they can focus on one small thing at a time. They can write down assignments in a notebook or on a calendar, prioritize the things they must do, create a schedule and plan time to study. 

2. Relax
No matter what else is going on, your children do need time to unwind. Encourage them to step away from their test prep materials for a few moments to enjoy a cup of tea, read a fun book or play outside. The human brain can only focus for so long, and taking breaks actually helps you remember information. During stressful times at school, insist you have family meals together so your kids have a built-in reprieve from working. 

3. Eat healthy
Eating balanced meals is good for the brain whereas foods high in unhealthy ingredients (i.e., bad fat, too many calories or sugar) can cause your kids to feel unfocused. When your children are stressed, they may be tempted to reach for a candy bar, but an apple will do them way more good. Help them stay healthy by making nutrient-rich meals and snacks.

4. Exercise
Not only does exercising give you energy, but it also boosts brain power. For that reason, your kids should stay physically active even when they're mentally overwhelmed. What's more, exercise releases endorphins that will make them feel good. Your kids can run around outside or participate in a sports team. Encourage your children to have friends over for a game of tag.

By helping your children reduce their stress, you can give them the energy, focus and confidence they need to do well in school and on Common Core tests.

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