Unlocking exam success

Janat Yahaya Naggolola – Parenting Coach

Assalam alaykum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh

Every parent longs to see their child’s true potential reflected in exam results. Yet it can be discouraging when a child who excels in assignments and tests does not achieve the same level of success during examinations.

This season of school holidays often brings a mix of joy and reflection. As parents, we eagerly await the report cards, only to sometimes feel discontentment or disappointment when the results do not match our expectations. But these moments, though difficult, can also be opportunities to guide, nurture, and support our children with wisdom and patience.

The question is: why does this happen, and how can we, as parents, guide our children through it with wisdom and faith?

Dear parents,

A child’s strong performance in classwork is already clear proof of her ability. The issue rarely lies in intelligence. More often, it lies in exam preparation, delivery, and emotional readiness.

Confidence is therefore the first area to nurture. Build it gradually by celebrating small milestones and affirming every effort. Constant reassurance reminds the child that exams are simply an assessment of knowledge, not a definition of her worth. The Prophet beautifully reminded us: “The most beloved deeds to Allah are those that are consistent, even if they are small.” (Sahih Bukhari & Muslim).

This is a powerful principle as steady, consistent growth always outweighs the pressure for perfection.

Equally important is practical preparation. Encourage your child to work with past exam papers and attempt them under timed conditions. This reduces anxiety, strengthens time management, and familiarizes her with the exam environment.

Alongside this, help her learn relaxation strategies such as deep breathing, short moments of silent du‘ā, and positive self-affirmations.

Before entering the exam room, guide her to recite the supplication: “Rabbi zidnī ‘ilma” (My Lord, increase me in knowledge, Qur’an 20:114). This not only settles the heart but also connects her efforts to Allah, reminding her that success ultimately comes from Him.

Another valuable step is to collaborate with teachers. Sometimes the difficulty is not in understanding the material, but in the technique of answering questions such as structuring responses, managing time effectively, and presenting knowledge clearly. Teacher feedback can help uncover and strengthen these areas.

Finally, never underestimate the role of balance. The Prophet emphasized moderation in all aspects of life, and study is no exception. Adequate rest, wholesome meals, physical activity, and short breaks during study sessions refresh the mind and sharpen memory.

A child who is well-rested, nourished, and balanced is far more likely to thrive under exam conditions.

Dear parents, the key lies in believing in your child and nurturing her belief in herself while also instilling tawakkul (trust) in Allah. A student who already excels in classwork clearly possesses the knowledge and ability. With consistent guidance, steady practice, and spiritual grounding, her exam results will, in shā’ Allāh, soon reflect her true potential.

“Exams do not define a child’s worth; they are but a test of preparation, patience, and trust in Allah. With knowledge, effort, and reliance on Him, every child can shine.”

Parents:

Support your child with confidence building, consistent revision, relaxation techniques, teacher collaboration, and a balanced lifestyle. Above all, remind her to place her trust in Allah, for true success lies in both effort and reliance on Him.

Every parent needs the PRESENT PARENT book because it is a timeless guide on how to raise confident, resilient, and spiritually grounded children in today’s challenging world. It equips you with practical tools and gentle wisdom to be more intentional in nurturing your child’s academic, emotional, and spiritual growth.

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