What are stress free exams for Neuro-divergent children?

Stress-free exams for Neuro-divergent children prioritize accommodations and support tailored to their specific needs. The goal is to create a comfortable testing environment where neurodivergent children can demonstrate their knowledge and abilities effectively.

• Providing extra time

• Offering alternative formats like oral exams or visual aids

• Minimising sensory distractions

• Ensuring clear instructions and communication

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Why we need to pay more attention to neurodivergent children, aka special needs children?

We need to pay more attention to neurodivergent children because they have unique needs and abilities that may require tailored support to thrive.  

By understanding and accommodating their differences, we can create inclusive environments where they can reach their full potential.

Special needs students may confront various challenges during exams, including sensory overload, wherein they may encounter sensory stimuli, such as noise, bright lights, or crowded spaces, or they may even have difficulty maintaining focus for an extended period, which can overwhelm them during exams. Exams may even trigger anxiety and distress in special needs children, leading to insufficient performance and emotional distress.

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Challenges faced by neurodivergent children during exams can be simplified by consistently navigating strategies that provide conducive and stress-free exam environment. With the right approach and support, and by implementing tactics that cater to their unique needs, we have created a propitious environment where special needs can thrive academically without undue stress.

Exemptions by CBSE

• Spastic

• Visually impaired

• Physically handicapped

• Dyslexic

• Autistic

Candidates with any of the above-mentioned disabilities, as defined in the Persons with Disabilities Act, 1995, provides the following:

General and specific rules laid down by the CBSE Board for Special Needs Children appearing for class X and XII exams; special needs children are provided with medical certificates so that they are permitted to use a Scribe or allow compensatory time. 

Candidates with disabilities, as defined in the examination bye-laws, have been helped by the institution to choose the option of taking music, painting, or home science as the subjects of study so that they are able to comprehend what they learn and score satisfactory grades to be able to be on par with other mainstream students.

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How do you help your kid?

  • Exam stress is common, but it’s important to manage it.
  • Break down your study sessions into smaller, manageable chunks, take regular breaks, get enough sleep, and remember to breathe deeply when you feel overwhelmed. And don’t forget to reward yourself for your hard work!
  • Parents can help with exam stress by creating a supportive and understanding environment. They can encourage healthy study habits, provide resources like study guides, provide the right kind of tutoring if needed, listen actively to their child’s concerns, and remind them that their worth is not solely defined by their exam performance.
  • Additionally, promoting relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or mindfulness can also be beneficial.
  • Effective collaboration and communication between educators, parents, and support staff are essential for ensuring the success of special needs children during exams. Emphasize the fact that there is regular discussion about the child’s needs, progress, and challenges and that we are working together to develop appropriate strategies and accommodations is one and the only way to achieve targeted goals.

Resources 

With all this information, we, at Valor Kids, wish to convey to all our parents of special needs children that exams don’t have to be a source of overwhelming stress for them. By implementing tailored strategies, providing individualised support, and fostering a supportive environment, we endeavour to help these students navigate exams with confidence and success. With patience, understanding, and collaboration, we can ensure that every child has the opportunity to thrive academically, regardless of their unique needs.

This article is wriiten by Komal Sharma 

Komal Sharma is the Director at VALOR KIDS. She has 20 years of professional experience. Komal has been a counselor, special educator& facilitator in many CBSE& IB schools. She is B.el.ed with PG Diploma in Management of Learning Disabilities. She is certified in Movement Therapy, Brain gym &Play therapy, USA.She has published research paper on Social Skills in “Practitioners Guide to Specific Learning Disabilities & Inclusive Education”. She is also the author of The book titled “Empower Your Child’s Brain To Perceive”.