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The exam period can be highly stressful for young people. The amount of pressure which they are generally under during this time is quite overwhelming for some of them, especially because some teenagers are highly susceptible to anxiety and depression. It is very important that they are helped to manage the pressure in the most effective ways possible.
Keeping it light
Remember that your child will be hearing a lot of worrying facts and figures as well as stories and anecdotes while they are at school. There will be tales of peers and siblings who ‘crumbled’ under the pressure of their exams despite being A* students previously. These sort of discussions can worry young people a lot.
Ensure that your child understands that their mental health matters more than anything else and that should things go awry, you will support them no matter what.
This top sixth form college carefully supports their students all the way through the exam period.
Preparing their space
Make sure that your child has a suitable working environment. Busy homes can be crowded but it’s vital that you set aside a space for your child to work at. If they share a room with a sibling, you may have to instigate a ‘no access’ period so that the studying child is not disturbed. If this is not possible, perhaps consider letting them use your own room if there’s no spare room. A comfortable chair, a desk of the correct height and good light are the main requirements.
Exercise and nutrition
Good nutrition, hydration and exercise are all vital when it comes to effective study. Help your child to stay hydrated, ensure they eat well and sleep at sensible times.
Late nights, junk food and fizzy drinks or caffeine will all work against your child.
When your child is healthy, gets enough exercise and revises enough there is no reason why they should not do well at their exams.
