For many South African families, matric is a major milestone. The final National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations can bring excitement about what comes next, but they can also create enormous pressure for learners.
Also see: Chasing success: The challenges of being a matriculant
With the 2026 matric exam season approaching, parents and caregivers have an important role to play.
The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) explains that encouragement does not necessarily mean pushing your child to study longer or demanding better marks. Often, the most valuable support is creating a calm home environment where learners feel understood, supported and confident in their ability to do their best.
Focus on effort, not just results
As parents, it is natural to hope for excellent matric results, particularly when university applications, bursaries and future career plans are involved. However, constantly asking about marks can make an already stressful situation worse. Instead, praise your child for the effort they are putting into their preparation.
Remind them that their matric results are important, but they do not define their worth or determine the entire course of their future.
Create a realistic study routine
A study timetable can help learners feel more in control of a demanding exam period. SADAG recommends creating a realistic study schedule and including personal time rather than trying to study continuously.
Parents can help by making the home environment as supportive as possible. This might mean reducing unnecessary distractions, helping with household responsibilities or simply respecting dedicated study time.
Avoid turning the timetable into another source of pressure. If your child falls behind one day, help them adjust the plan rather than making them feel guilty.
Also see: Chasing success: The challenges of being a matriculant
Know your child’s exam timetable
Knowing when your child is writing each subject allows you to provide practical support at the right time. Check that they have the stationery and equipment they need for a particular exam. On exam mornings, help them leave home with enough time to reach the examination venue without unnecessary rushing.
Small acts of preparation can remove stress that has nothing to do with the actual exam.
Encourage breaks and healthy sleep
Studying late into the night may feel productive, but learners also need time to rest and recharge. The Western Cape Education Department highlights the importance of eating properly, exercising, and getting enough sleep when dealing with exam stress.
Parents can encourage simple habits such as having regular meals, taking short breaks, getting some fresh air and maintaining a reasonable sleep routine.
Don’t compare them with other learners
Every learner has different strengths, challenges, and circumstances. Encourage your child to compete with their previous performance rather than with classmates, cousins or friends. Celebrate their improvements, whether that means understanding a difficult concept, completing a past paper or becoming more confident in a subject.
Matric is a big deal, but your child’s emotional well-being matters too. The best support is often a combination of practical help, encouragement, patience, and reassurance.
Also see: Matric class of 2025: Watch out for bogus universities
Featured image: Getty Images/Johnny Greig
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