Wellness Tips

Here are some tips for parents on how to help their child with exam stress:

• Talk to your child about their stress. Let them know that it is normal to feel stressed about exams, and that you are there to support them. Ask them how they are feeling, and what they are worried about. Listen to them without judgment, and offer your support.

• Help your child develop a study plan. This will help them to feel more in control and less stressed. Help them to break down the material into manageable chunks, and to set realistic goals. Encourage them to create a schedule and stick to it.

• Encourage your child to take breaks. Studying for long periods of time can be counterproductive. Encourage your child to take breaks every 20-30 minutes to get up and move around, or to do something else that they enjoy. This will help them to stay focused and avoid burnout.

• Help your child to get a good night's sleep. This will help them to be more alert and focused during exams. Encourage your child to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day, and to avoid caffeine and alcohol before bed.

• Provide a calm and supportive environment at home. This will help your child to relax and focus on their studies. Avoid arguing or fighting in front of them, and create a space where they can study without distractions.

• Avoid comparing your child to others. Everyone learns at their own pace. Comparing your child to others will only make them feel more stressed. Instead, focus on their own progress and accomplishments.

• Remind your child of their strengths. Everyone has strengths and weaknesses. Help your child to focus on their strengths and not to worry about their weaknesses. This will help them to feel more confident and capable.

• Help your child to develop a positive attitude. A positive attitude can go a long way in reducing stress. Encourage your child to believe in themselves and their ability to succeed.

Here are some additional tips that may be helpful:

• Help your child to identify their stressors. Once they know what is causing them stress, they can start to develop strategies for coping. Some common stressors for students include:

  • Exams

  • Homework

  • Social pressure

  • Family problems

  • Health problems

• Teach your child relaxation techniques. There are many different relaxation techniques that can be helpful for reducing stress. Some examples include deep breathing, meditation, and yoga. You can find many resources online or in books that can teach you and your child these techniques.

• Encourage your child to exercise regularly. Exercise is a great way to reduce stress and improve mood. It doesn't have to be anything too strenuous. Even a brisk walk or some light stretching can make a difference.

• Help your child to eat a healthy diet. Eating a healthy diet can give your child the energy they need to cope with stress. Avoid processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive amounts of caffeine and alcohol.

• Encourage your child to get enough sleep. Sleep is essential for reducing stress and improving concentration. Most teenagers need around 8-10 hours of sleep per night.

• Seek professional help if needed. If your child is struggling to cope with stress, it is important to seek professional help. A therapist can teach your child coping skills and help them to develop a healthy relationship with stress.

Remember, every child is different, so what works for one child may not work for another. The most important thing is to be supportive and understanding, and to provide your child with the resources they need to cope with stress.

If you have any concerns about your child's socio-emotional wellbeing in school, please feel free to get in touch with your child's Form teacher or Year Group Leader.