Pholoso Manyama|Published
As matric pupils progress into week two of their National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations, parents can help manage the stress and help pupils stay motivated.
A thoughtful care package filled with everyday essentials and a few treats can go a long way in showing them you care.
What to include in a matric care package
A matric exam care package can include practical stationery, healthy snacks and small comfort items to help pupils feel prepared and supported during their final exams.
Snacks and drinks
Long study sessions can be tiring, so include a few easy snacks to enjoy during breaks, such as:
- Biltong
- Dried fruit, nuts and raisins
- Rooibos tea
- A reusable water bottle to encourage regular hydration
Essential stationery
Having the right stationery on hand can help pupils organise their notes and prepare for exams. Consider including:
- Blue or black pens
- Pencils and erasers
- Highlighters
- Index cards for revision notes
- A clear pencil case to keep everything together
Remember to check the examination centre's rules about which stationery and equipment pupils are allowed to bring into the exam room.
Small comfort items
A few affordable extras can make the care package feel more personal and help pupils feel cared for during a stressful time.
Consider adding:
- Lip balm or hand cream
- A small stress ball
- Earplugs to help block out household noise while studying
The goal is not to spend a lot of money, but to remind your matric pupil that they have your support as they work towards completing their school career.
Support does not have to come with a price tag
Handwritten notes are a simple way to remind pupils that they are not facing the examination period alone. Parents can prepare envelopes labelled “Open when you feel overwhelmed”, “Open before a difficult paper” or “Open after your exam”, each containing a few words of encouragement.
The messages can remind pupils to take breaks, trust the preparation they have done and remember that their worth extends beyond their examination results.
Care packages can also be assembled using items already available at home. A decorated shoebox or reusable shopping bag can replace an expensive gift basket, while snacks bought in bulk can be divided into smaller portions.
Use what you have
Affordable stationery from local retailers can help keep costs down.
Parents and caregivers can also support pupils by creating a calm study environment, providing regular meals, respecting their need for rest and checking in without adding unnecessary pressure.
As the matric examination season continues, the focus should be on helping pupils feel prepared rather than overwhelmed.
A small, carefully put-together package may not change the difficulty of an examination, but it can serve as a reminder that someone is in their corner.