Exam season is upon us once again, and kids all over the country are pulling their hair out trying to deal with the endless amount of revision thats been thrust upon them.

Parenting on Female First

Parenting on Female First

For some, it may be an end of year exam, but for others, it could feel like thier last chance to prove what they know before they set out into the world.

We know you want to them to do well regardless, so we've put together a few tips on how you can help your child combat the unwanted stress that exam season brings.

1. Help them get a good nights sleep.

This is the most common tip for exam stress, but it really works. If your child is tired, everything may seem like it's getting on top of them, and they need to try and relax.

Encourage them to go to bed early and get a good nights sleep, or suggest a bath to help them calm them down and get their 8 hours.

2. Make sure they've eaten.

The saying is true, breakfast is the most important meal of the day, especially at exam time. On the day of the exam, make sure your child has eaten. The energy from the food will help wake them up, and will keep them energised and their brain engaged.Try something like porridge and a banana, that will be sure to fill them up and keep them going until lunch.

Regular meals are also important, it helps to provide the energy they need to carry on revising.

3. Encourage them.

We all know that revision gets you down, it's just not fun. If your child looks like they're at a point where they're losing interest, try to gently encourage them to do a little bit more.

Try reminding them that it's only a few weeks, and although it may seem a little intense now, that there is life after the exam. That way they know that you're there to support them.

You could also offer to help them revise, or test them. If you didn't know something they've learnt, let them know, it might encourage them if they feel as though they're teaching you something. If they say no, dont force them, some people just revise better alone.

4. Help them devise a plan

Timetabling is an important factor when it comes to revising. If there's more than one subject, you need to help them find time to do at least some revision for all of them.

Ask them if they struggle with any area in particular, and put aside more time for them to focus on this. It's a good idea to help when devising a timetable, because it lets the child know that you will be there for support throughout their revision period.

5. Give them space.

Although you want to be around them all the time to make sure they're actually revising, a lot of kids know what they're doing. If they're having a short break, don't question it, it might be what they need.

Okay, if it's a week before the exam and they haven't even picked up a book, maybe it's then time to give them a gentle push in the right direction.

Also, try to give them some peace and quiet, it's not easy to revise when the TV's on full blast and everyone's shouting and screaming. Be considerate.

6. Know their timetable.

Knowing your child's exam timetable is important for two reasons:

a) Knowing when to wake them up- although they might be a genius, kids don't always wake up on time.

b) So that they know you are actually bothered, it's that support thing again. 7. Wish them luck.

Don't forget to wish your child luck on the day of their exam. It will help encourage them when they know that you remembered their big day.

Also remind them to stay calm, it might not seem like it now, but it's not the end of the world if they find it difficult. Exams are't meant to be easy. 8. Ask how it went.

Lastly, remember to ask how the exam went. They might need someone to unload their thoughts on, and you could be that person.

Try to remember that the stress can carry on after the exam is over. Although there will be a sense of relief, there's still those anxious few months while they wait for the results.

By Emma Cocker

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