Top Tips for Supporting Your Child Through the Exam Period

Exams are always nerve-wracking, no matter how confident your child is, but some children will deal with it better than others. It’s important to look out for the signs they might be struggling with exam anxiety, such as not sleeping or eating well, feeling irritable and agitated, or withdrawing from contact. Although it’s a tough time, there are some things you can do to support your child through this challenging period, as explored here by a Sixth Form in Somerset. 

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Consistent routine

Help your child keep to a routine when they’re revising, with consistent times for getting up in the morning, studying, having some relaxation time and going to bed. Structure can help children feel secure and more in control, which will help calm their anxiety around revision and exams. You could help them create a study timetable with set times for certain subjects, which will help maintain a routine; it will also show them that they have time to fit everything in if they stick to the schedule – something which will help ease concerns about revising enough material in time for the exams. 

Regular exercise

Encourage your child to get outside and do some form of physical activity every day, such as walking, swimming or playing football. This will take their mind off revising for a while, and the feel-good endorphins released by exercise will reduce their stress levels. Giving their brain a break for studying will help them return to it with renewed energy and concentration. 

Eating well

A balanced diet is particularly important in helping children feel well during the exam period. Encourage your child to avoid high-sugar and high-fat foods, and stimulants such as caffeine and energy drinks. Plan and cook meals together using healthy ingredients, which will also give them a welcome break from revising and focus their attention on something else for a while. Of course, it’s fine for them to have the odd treat as something to look forward to, but try to make sure they’re eating healthily most of the time. 

Enough sleep

A good night’s sleep improves concentration and memory, something which your child will need to cultivate during exam time. They’ll probably need between eight and ten hours’ sleep each night to feel their best, both mentally and physically, in the morning. Encourage them to go to bed at the same time each night and avoid playing games or watching TV in bed, as this will only stimulate their brain, making it harder to drop off. 

These healthy habits will enable your child to get the most out of their revision time and do their best in their exams.