Revision Well-being for Parents/Carers

Putting off revision, finding excuses to do other things or leaving all the work until the last minute are some of the most common mistakes pupils can make when preparing for exams. The fact is, the more they delay, the more likely they are to get into a panic.

Probably the biggest problem surrounding revision and exams is stress. It can make even the most ardent reviser think they can’t remember anything, and even lead to panic attacks.

So how should I help my child to deal with exam stress?

• Encourage them not to be frightened of exam stress, but to see it as a positive force – after all, it keeps them on their toes mentally, and can help them focus on the task in hand.
• Learn to recognise when they are stressing out and understand its causes. Often, a break or a chat with someone who knows the pressure they are under will get things into perspective.
• Make sure that they get a good nights’ sleep before each exam – it will be much easier for them to concentrate during the exam if they are not feeling too tired.
• Encourage them to eat healthily during their revision and exams: Plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables.
• Avoid caffeine and energy drinks, they can make stress worse and dehydrate the brain.

Making sure your child has all the right equipment, so they can get ready for their exams is also something you could really help with. Some things that your child could find very useful during their revision:

• Fine-point coloured pens
• Post-it notes
• Folders and files
• Highlighters
• Note or record cards
• Revision guides
• Table lamp
• Notebooks
• Past exam papers
• Watch/timer
• Textbooks
• Calendar
• Pin-board
• Access to a computer and printer

The NHS have some fantastic hints and tips. Please visit this link for more information.

Help your child beat exam stress

Find out how to help your child through the stress of school exams and tests, including what you can do to help them cope with nerves and anxiety, plus advice about diet, sleep and exercise.

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