Supporting your student during this hectic time: Midterm Madness
The time is here — the year's first round of midterm exams. Your student is likely preparing to show how much he learned, or didn't learn, when midterms kick into high gear later this month.

As a parent or family member, you can help alleviate some of the panic associated with this high-stress time of year. For instance, you can:

• Be Understanding When She's Not in Touch. Preparing for midterms often throws students off schedule, causing them to be unable to get to everything on their To Do list. One of those things may be calling or visiting you as frequently. Try to understand and not take it personally.
• Keep Burdens Away. This may not be the best time to tell your student that money is tight or that the house is up for sale, especially if there's nothing she can do about it.
• Encourage Healthy Eating. Good nutrition will help your student stay focused and on track. Too much caffeine during late-night study sessions can throw his system out of whack.
• Send Positive Stuff. An encouraging e-card, a piece of real mail, a fun magazine to read when midterms are over ... all of these "little" things can mean a lot!
• Don't Add Academic Pressure. Making all or nothing statements like "You better pass this test" or "If you fail, we'll pull you out of school" adds a whole other layer of stress to an already stressful time. Try to steer clear of ultimatums and unnecessary pressures so your student has a shot at doing her best.

And let your student know that you are there, ready to talk and process through things, when he needs you. Having the support of people who believe in you can make a huge difference in getting through midterms successfully.