Encourage a Healthy Lifestyle:

Promote a balanced lifestyle that includes regular exercise, healthy eating, and sufficient sleep. Encourage your child to engage in physical activities they enjoy, as exercise can help reduce anxiety and improve focus. Provide nutritious meals to support their brain function and energy levels. Ensure they get enough good quality sleep, as a well-rested mind is better equipped to handle stress.

Foster Effective Study Habits:

Guide your child in developing effective study habits to maximize their productivity and reduce stress. Encourage them to create a study schedule that includes regular breaks, allowing for rest and relaxation. Teach them techniques such as breaking down study material into manageable chunks, practising active recall, and using mnemonic devices to aid memory retention. Use meal times or car journeys as an opportunity to discuss questions and topics.

Promote Self-Care:

Emphasize the importance of self-care during the exam period. Encourage your child to take breaks to engage in activities they enjoy, such as reading, listening to music, or spending time outdoors. Help them find healthy coping mechanisms, such as deep breathing exercises or mindfulness techniques, to manage stress in a positive way.

Provide Emotional Support:

Be a source of emotional support for your child during this challenging time. Listen to their concerns and validate their feelings. Offer reassurance and remind them that exams do not define their worth or future success. Encourage open communication and create a safe space for them to express their emotions without judgement.

Teach Time Management:

Help your child develop effective time management skills to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Teach them to prioritise tasks based on importance and urgency. Encourage them to break down their study material into smaller, manageable sections and allocate specific time slots for each task. By learning to manage their time effectively, they can reduce stress and maintain a sense of control. Encourage the use of a planner or diary as discussed in a previous blog.

Encourage Seeking Help:

Remind your child that it is okay to ask for help when needed. Encourage them to reach out to their teachers or classmates for clarification on difficult topics. If they are struggling with anxiety or stress, consider seeking professional help from a counsellor or therapist who specialises in working with students.

Celebrate Achievements:

Acknowledge and celebrate your child's efforts and achievements throughout the exam period. Provide positive reinforcement and praise their hard work. Celebrating small milestones can boost their confidence and motivation.

The lead-up to summer exams can be a stressful time for students, but with the right support from parents, your children can manage their stress effectively, navigate the exam period with confidence and resilience, and perform to the best of their abilities. Remember, your support and understanding play a crucial role in their overall well-being and success.

Alison Robinson is Head of Art and Head of Penshurst Falcons at Radnor House.