Look beyond results, focus on inculcating values

Guide for parents

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Fuhua Secondary School's upper secondary year head Germain Kang (centre) with Secondary 4 students (from left) Muhammad Hilmi Muhammad Rizal, Singh Ipshita Pramod, Charlene Tiu and Wong Kai Yu. She says parents should assure their kids of their unconditional love, regardless of exam scores.

(ST PHOTO: BRIAN TEO)

Ms Yap from Lakeside Family Services adds that thoughtful gestures such as a text message, a handwritten note, a warm smile or a gentle pat on the back can also help.

“I like sending my children funny WhatsApp stickers or lighthearted videos to add a dose of humour during stressful moments,” shares the mum of three children, aged between 25 and 31.

Miss Kang adds that you should pay attention to distress signals such as changes in your teens’ sleeping habits, appetite or mood.

“Addressing these issues can sometimes be more effective than having conversations about exam revision,” she says.

Many parents are familiar with the saying: “Exam results do not define our children’s worth.” But some feel that expressing this to their teens can conflict with their attempts to encourage them to study hard and persevere.

Miss Kang says you should assure your children that your love for them is unconditional and this is also regardless of their exam scores.