If you’re the parent of a year 12 student, it’s probably an extremely rare occasion that you are graced with their presence.
And when you are, you may be startled to find this frazzled, anxiety-riddled wreck, formerly known as your child.
Thoughtfully (and masking your own intense anxiety about their well-being) you nudge them towards a nutritious breakky and remind them of that assignment they have due tomorrow.
“How much study did you get done last night?” you ask, curious and genuinely interested.
*Nailed it*
Ahhh are you on crack? No you most certainly did not nail it. In fact, you probably just increased their nerve-factor ten-fold.
According to Zoe Mallett who completed her final year of school last year, this is the worst thing you can do. The kids are putting enough pressure on themselves without you adding to it, however well-intentioned.
“My parents were just supportive and wanted me to do the best I could do… The pressure was purely stemmed from my own expectations and my own desire to do well,” she said.
The Victorian student filmed her school year, from the boy dramas to her mental illness, and is now airing it for Australia to see on new ABC documentary, My Year 12 Life.
And this week on our parenting podcast, she shared what she learned. But more importantly, what PARENTS need to learn so you can all make it through the school year without anyone drawing up emancipation papers.
Top Comments
Umm how about kids don't expect to be the centre of the universe when they do year 12? Chances are their parents have done it too and are also trying to you know keep their careers/ pay for things/ run the house etc as well as support their children the best way possible... sometimes I wonder if these kids have any freakin clue at all that the whole world doesn't revolve around them...
My advice.... lots of healthy, yummy snacks. When I was studying my mum would come in drop a plate of cheese and bickies and fruit on my desk with a cup of tea and then just leave. I still remember it and I'm 37.