How to Support Your Child the Day Before the SEA Exam

Tomorrow is the big day.

After months, maybe even years, of preparation, your child will be sitting the SEA exam.

As parents, your nerves might be just as frayed as theirs, if not more. It’s completely normal.

But today, I want to remind you of something important: you’ve already done the hard work and so have they.

The day before the exam is not about cramming or perfection. It’s about comfort, calm, and connection.

Here are a few things you can do today to support your child—and yourself:

1. Keep the atmosphere light.

Today isn’t the day for last-minute drills or panic. Keep the energy at home calm and loving. Smile more. Laugh together. Let your child feel your confidence in them.

2. Offer gentle encouragement.

Let your child know how proud you are of them, not just for their academics, but for their effort, discipline, and growth. This reassurance means more to them than you might think. Remind them that no matter what happens tomorrow, they are loved, supported, and valued.

3. Stick to familiar routines.

Keep meals, rest times, and bedtime as predictable as possible. Familiarity brings comfort. Try to avoid any unnecessary changes today. The goal is to help their mind and body feel stable and secure.

4. Prep calmly for tomorrow.

Pack the bag early. Double-check pencils, erasers, snacks, and ID if needed. Lay out clothes. Getting everything ready early reduces stress for both you and your child in the morning.

5. Encourage movement and rest.

Let your child move their body a bit: light stretching, a short walk, or even dancing to music in the living room. It helps release built-up tension. Then aim for a full night’s rest. A well-rested brain performs better than a tired one full of last-minute facts.

6. Be a safe space.

Your child might show nerves in ways that don’t look like fear: irritability, withdrawal, or even tears. Meet these emotions with patience. They’re not trying to upset you...they’re just carrying big feelings in small bodies. Be their calm when they feel chaos inside.

7. End the night on a positive note.

Whatever your family’s spiritual practices are, tonight is the perfect time to center yourselves. Say a prayer together, speak affirmations, or just spend a few quiet moments expressing gratitude and peace. Let them go to bed feeling secure, loved, and held.

Tomorrow is just one step in a much longer journey.

One exam cannot define the limitless potential of your child OR the love and support they have behind them. It is this same love and support that will carry them far beyond the exam room.

Breathe. Be proud. Be kind to yourself.

You’ve got this. So do they.