HELPING YOUR CHILD PREPARE FOR SCHOOL EXAMS

The exam period can be a stressful time for children, whether they enjoy school or not. How your child deals with exam stress will depend on their individual personality and academic progress, as well as how prepared they feel leading up to the exams. As parents, we need to support our children through this time by encouraging them to maintain healthy study and life habits. To give you a head start, here’s some tips on preparing your child for exams from a private school in Hammersmith. 

Get organised

Make sure you and your child know exactly when the exams are and then design a revision timetable that allows them to prepare thoroughly and cover all the required topics in good time. It’s best to split the day up into manageable chunks of time, incorporating time for rest and relaxation, and any other commitments they have. Make sure your child also gets plenty of fresh air and exercise, which will help with their energy and motivation levels. 

Provide an adequate study space

In order to revise effectively, your child will need a dedicated study space free from noise and distractions. Ideally they will have their own bedroom with everything they need in it, but if that’s not possible try to find a quiet part of the house where they can set up a desk and computer and not be disturbed when they’re studying. Make sure they have all the stationery they need and the required textbooks, and access to the internet if applicable. 

Encourage healthy lifestyle habits

As well as getting into a solid study routine, encourage your child to maintain a healthy lifestyle including regular exercise, a nutritious diet, adequate sleep and time for socialising and relaxing. If it’s all studying they could get burnt out and demotivated. A  few incentives can help, like the promise of a trip out after a day’s studying or inviting friends over for a get-together. 

Communicate openly

Make sure your child knows that you’re there for them if they ever want to talk about any worries or difficulties. Show an interest in what they’re doing and how they’re feeling by asking open questions and getting involved in their revision if possible, e.g. helping them with flashcards or role play. Keep an eye out for signs that your child is feeling low or withdrawing from things and seek professional help if necessary. They might also find it helpful to talk to other family members or friends, or someone more objective like a teacher. 

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