In years past, spring was a sign that the school year was over. This season has become increasingly stressful because of the convergence of extracurricular activities such as sports, end-of the-year assessments, projects, and college applications.

“As stress builds for students during the second half of the school year, the best release to this ‘academic pressure cooker’ may also be the most simple -time!”Richard E. Bavaria is a Ph.D., vice president of education at Sylvan Learning Center. “Through effective time management and other strategies, students can create ‘found time’ and find themselves better prepared for all of the activities and challenges that come along with the final months of the school year.”

There are many ways students can manage their work and make time for relaxation at home.

Sylvan Learning Center has created these tips to assist students in academic success.

* Spring cleaning: Organization – both at home and at school – will save students time by eliminating the need to search for homework assignments, books and other items necessary for spring success. You can create a “homework zone”It houses study tools and allows students distraction-free study.

* Spring check-up: Stay informed about the end-of-school activities for which your child will be responsible. Encourage students use planners to make timelines. Or place a large calendar with deadlines, test dates, and other information in a prominent area of the home.

* Spring tuneup: Help your child evaluate the subjects or areas that she finds most challenging. It will help your child spend more energy on the difficult areas.

* Spring in your step: Exercise is a great way to alleviate stress and stimulate the mind. Students can recharge their energy levels and regain focus by taking short breaks between assignments.

* Spring break: Compressing study time into one all-nighter may seem like a good way to save time, but the brain is less efficient without taking a break to rest, and a student’s memory can be affected. You can ensure that your child gets the recommended amount sleep by spreading out study efforts over a time period.

* Spring forward: Use your family’s “found time”Celebrate your spring achievements Celebrate spring successes with your child!

For additional educational resources for children in grades pre-K through 12, call 1-800-31-SUCCESS or visit http://tutoring.sylvanlearning.com.