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Exam season can be a stressful time for children and parents alike. As pressure builds, it’s important to create an environment that helps your child feel supported, calm, and confident. With the right approach, you can help them develop healthy habits and resilience that extend far beyond the exam hall.
Create a Structured but Flexible Routine
One of the most effective ways to reduce exam stress is to establish a clear study routine. Encourage your child to create a timetable that includes short, focused revision sessions mixed with regular breaks. This helps prevent burnout and makes the workload feel more manageable.
A routine also provides a sense of stability, but it’s essential to keep it flexible. If your child is having an off day or becomes overwhelmed, allow them to adapt their schedule. The aim is to encourage consistency without making the routine feel restrictive.
Provide a Calm and Comfortable Study Space
A quiet, organised space can make a huge difference to your child’s ability to concentrate. Whether it’s a desk in their bedroom or a corner of the dining room, try to create an area free from distractions, clutter, and noise.
Good lighting, comfortable seating, and easy access to revision materials can help keep your child focused. It may also help to remove devices or turn off notifications during study time to minimise interruptions.
Encourage Healthy Habits
Exam preparation isn’t just about revision; it’s also about maintaining wellbeing. Encourage your child to:
- Eat balanced meals – Nutritious food supports energy levels and concentration.
- Stay hydrated – Even slight dehydration can affect focus.
- Get enough sleep – Consistent sleep patterns are crucial for memory and mood.
- Stay active – Physical activity reduces stress and boosts brain function.
Small lifestyle choices can greatly improve your child’s ability to revise effectively and cope with exam pressure.
Offer Emotional Support and Reassurance
Children often put enormous pressure on themselves, so your role as a parent is to reassure them that exams don’t define their worth. Talk openly with your child and encourage them to share how they’re feeling. Listen without judgement and remind them that it’s normal to feel anxious.
Praising effort rather than outcomes is key. Celebrate the hard work they’re putting in, not just the grades they may achieve. This builds confidence and fosters a more positive mindset towards exams.
Help Them Develop Revision Techniques That Work for Them
Every child learns differently, so explore a range of revision methods to find what suits them best. This could include:
- Flashcards
- Mind maps
- Practice papers
- Reading aloud
- Teaching the material to someone else
Mixing techniques can make revision more engaging and help strengthen memory.
Prepare for Exam Day
In the lead-up to exam day, help your child feel calm and prepared. Ensure they know what to bring, how to get to the venue, and what time they need to arrive. A calm morning routine, a healthy breakfast, and some reassuring words can set a positive tone for the day.
