Tests, exams, or quizes—whatever name we give to moments of knowledge verification—they are always synonymous with alertness and unease. And that's okay; after all, these are times that demand even more effort, stimulate concentration, and enhance the ability to organize work.

However, there are signs, more or less visible, that reveal the harmful side of this pressure in children and young people, such as: irritability and excessive worry; isolation and lack of self-confidence ("I am not capable"); insomnia and tiredness; lack of appetite, or compulsive urge to eat; even nausea or headaches. This anxiety comes from a demand, sometimes self-imposed, to show good performance in front of their peers, teachers and parents.

Consequently, Educators must, first and foremost, conduct a self-assessment of the messages they convey to students."Am I demanding too much? Do I place too high expectations on their performance? Do I compare their results to the grades of siblings, cousins, or friends?" – these are some of the questions that can help in this reflection. We want the best in the world for our children, and sometimes we don't realize the pressure and expectations we place on them. We want them to be successful, but especially, happy! WOOK understands this and will try to help you during these times, which test the patience of both children and adults. Here are some tips:

1) Demystifying the "boogeyman" of exams: Tests and exams are moments for evaluating knowledge, but they don't have to be the "boogeyman" that steals the joy of younger students. If the student has a daily study rhythm and interest in exploring the topics covered in class, the preparation for the test is done. It's simply a matter of reviewing the more complex concepts and practicing, through the performing exercisesA grade is important, but it's not a "certificate": A lower grade is merely a warning to redirect attention and effort to that subject or topic. A good grade is a reason to celebrate, but not to relax and never revisit those topics. After all, the important thing is to learn, right?

2) Asking never offends.Asking questions is synonymous with interest and study, and teachers like and appreciate it. Encourage your students to ask questions to teachers during class and to clarify their doubts. Their doubts may be the doubts of their classmates, and thus they co-create knowledge.

3) Sleeping well and eating well is half the battle. Just as important as preparation between books is ensuring that the child or adolescent sleeps well and eats healthily. While a balanced diet provides the necessary nutrients for the brain to assimilate information, a good night's sleep increases the ability to absorb/consolidate knowledge and improves concentration during study time.

4) Blessed pauses: Taking breaks every 2 hours is not a sign of hyperactivity and difficulty concentrating: the brain needs it and the body appreciates it. During the longer break, encourage some physical activity: dancing, playing ball, cycling, or simply walking will increase the brain's predisposition to receive more information.

5) Consultant, but not a replacement: Help him create his study plan, organize his tasks, and gain access to all the necessary resourcesHowever, don't try to do it for him. Instead, try to solidify his autonomy and sense of responsibility for his results. Among the resources that can help him prepare for tests and exams, WOOK recommends the platform. Virtual schoolAdapted to the demands of modern times, in Virtual school You can find thousands of interactive lessons and tests, developed based on the content taught from the 1st to the 12th grade.

6) "Inhale, exhale, and don't freak out": Talk to them about the anxiety and fear they are feeling. Being nervous about the test or exam that you're almost there is normal, but it shouldn't prevent you from feeling good and motivated. If the student shows signs that they can't cope alone with the pressure of this time, try developing relaxation routines as a family. Mindfulness and Yoga are some options, explored by Maria Palha in the book. "To move"In this article, we also recommend the book "Educating Emotions", where Armanda Céspedes presents strategies for parents and other adults to help children understand and cope with their emotions.

Now, just for you, the parent and educator: Try to be more flexible and understanding! It's natural for them to be more irritable, sensitive, and moody. Be patient, it's a phase and it will pass. In the meantime, grab a good book and join them on this fantastic journey of learning.