Exam season can turn even the calmest household into a pressure cooker. Your child might be feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or unsure where to start — and as a parent, it’s natural to want to help without adding to the stress. The good news is that your support can make a real difference. Here are some practical, parent-approved ways to help your child feel prepared, confident, and supported during exam time.

1. Create a Calm, Supportive Environment

A peaceful home environment goes a long way. Try to reduce unnecessary noise and distractions, especially during revision time. This doesn’t mean tip-toeing around the house, but being mindful of loud TV, music, or busy schedules can help your child focus better.

Equally important is emotional calm. If you’re feeling stressed about their exams, they’ll probably sense it. Reassure them that exams are important, but they’re not a measure of their worth or future success.

2. Help Them Plan (But Don’t Take Over)

Many children struggle not with the content, but with organising their time. Sit down together and help them create a realistic revision timetable that balances study with breaks, hobbies, and rest.

Encourage them to:

• Break revision into manageable chunks
• Prioritise weaker subjects
• Set small, achievable goals

Once the plan is in place, step back. Ownership is key — it helps build independence and confidence.

3. Encourage Good Study Habits

Everyone learns differently, so help your child find what works for them. Some effective revision techniques include:

• Making summary notes or mind maps
• Teaching the topic back to you (great for spotting gaps in understanding)
• Using past papers and practice questions
• Creating flashcards for key facts

Gently steer them away from passive habits like endlessly re-reading notes, which often feel productive but aren’t very effective.

4. Don’t Underestimate Breaks and Sleep

Short, regular breaks improve concentration and reduce burnout. Encourage your child to step away from their desk, stretch, get some fresh air, or do something they enjoy.

Sleep is just as important. A tired brain struggles to retain information, so late-night cramming is usually counterproductive. Aim for a consistent bedtime, especially in the weeks leading up to exams.

5. Fuel Their Brain

A balanced diet can help with energy levels and focus. Encourage regular meals and healthy snacks, particularly during long study days. Foods with slow-release energy — like wholegrains, fruit, nuts, and yoghurt — are ideal.

On exam days, a decent breakfast and plenty of water can make a noticeable difference to concentration and mood.

6. Talk About Stress and Normalise It

Exam nerves are completely normal. Let your child know that feeling anxious doesn’t mean they’re unprepared or going to fail — it often just means they care.

Encourage open conversations about how they’re feeling. Simple strategies like deep breathing, short walks, or writing down worries can help manage anxiety. If stress feels overwhelming or persistent, don’t hesitate to reach out to teachers or school support services.

7. Be Positive and Focus on Effort

Praise effort, not just results. Comments like “I’m proud of how hard you’re working” or “You’ve really stuck with that topic” reinforce a growth mindset and reduce fear of failure.

Avoid constant comparisons with siblings, friends, or classmates. Every child learns at their own pace, and comparison often adds unnecessary pressure.

8. Be Realistic

Finally — and this is crucial — remember that exams are just one part of your child’s journey. There are always multiple paths to success, and one set of results does not define them.

Your steady reassurance, belief in them, and presence throughout exam season may be the most valuable support you offer.

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