Exam period is usually a tough time for young people. They tend to put a lot of pressure on themselves to perform well and get good grades. If they’re not the one’s putting on the pressure then it’s their family members or teachers. Either way, it becomes a stressful experience. Children cope with their anxiety in different ways; some struggle more than others and sometimes exam stress can become just that little bit too much to bear. With that in mind, as a parent you should keep an eye on your youngster during their exam period. Try and spot the signs of stress and anxiety and do your best to comfort them and reduce the pressure. A sixth form in Hertfordshire have the following advice.

Encourage Healthy Lifestyle Choices

Make sure that your child makes healthy lifestyle choices in the run up to their exams. If they don’t get enough sleep, for instance, they won’t be able to focus and will feel even more stressed. If they don’t eat a healthy diet, their immune system will be compromised and they may get sick. What’s more, exercise is a fantastic way to limit stress levels and can even improve memory, so it’s worth encouraging your youngster to go for a walk/run or join an active club.

Searching for Sand

Provide a Shoulder to Cry On

Check in with your child each day and make sure they know that you are available to chat to should they need to. They might just want to let off some steam or get some advice but simply knowing that someone is there to support them will go a long way. Tell them that they should never be embarrassed about feeling a certain way or wanting to talk about it.

Prepare a Revision Schedule in Advance

Help your child get ready for their exams as early as possible by preparing a revision schedule; little and often is far more productive than long bouts of studying with no break. The more prepared your child is, the less stressed they’ll feel nearer the time.

Take the Pressure Off

Remind your son or daughter that their exams are not the be-and-end-all of their life; if things don’t pan out as preferred, they can retake their exams or come up with a new plan in terms of higher education and a career. There are always other options, so try and keep an open mind and be realistic with your expectations. The mental and physical health of your child is more important than their exam results, so let them know that no matter what the outcome you are proud of them for trying their best.