Getting your child through their exams - Exams

When your child or someone in your care is taking their exams, it may feel like you’re treading on eggshells in the house whilst they’re revising.

Tempers can flare and people can be snappy, but its only because the pressure is on. We've decided on some steps you can take to keep the calm.

Look out for the signs

Exam pressure can get to someone even if they say it doesn’t. If your child does something out of the ordinary, think about whether it may be stress that’s the cause – but don’t assume.

Keep positive

Whilst you may have your own stresses, try your best to be positive about their exams – it may rub off on them and encourage them when they need it most. Let them know exams are just a stepping-stone to the next thing, not the be all and end all of life.

Help where you can

If you know that they’re finding something particularly difficult, offer to help (if you know the topic!), as it may help hearing it from someone new.

Time their practice papers

This way they have someone to answer to, and someone making sure they keep to time. Pop in on them every fifteen minutes or so to keep them on track

Feed them!

Lots of young people are happy to sort their own food, but sneaking in some extra greens how you did when they were little won’t go amiss.

Make sure they're set

On the day of their exams, make sure they have everything they need, and help them get there on time. Of course it is their responsibility, but a little extra help like this can go a long way.

Remember that the exam period is just that- a period – and the pressure will ease off eventually.  As long as they know they’ve got your support, they’ll no doubt feel encouraged and ready to go. There’s a lot of pressure on young people to be successful, and parents and carers are often the best ones to help them through.