Is your child facing GCSEs and A Levels this year? Look out for signs of panic: sleeplessness, complaints that they just can’t revise, restlessness and moody behaviour.
The problem with stress is that it stops you from thinking straight. If you can’t think, you can’t process information. And when that happens, an already anxious head becomes overwhelmed fast.
How to help your child stay calm in a crisis
- Practise deep breathing techniques. Spend some time practising breathing in for five counts, and then exhaling out for twice that. It really DOES work!
- Focus more on key subjects. If your teen needs specific subject grades to go onto further study, help them focus on those subjects now. Ideally, list any areas (for each subject) that cause anxiety and then make a plan of action to confront them. Ask teachers for specific help, add to revision timetable, enlist support of a private tutor.
- Put health first. If your teen eats well, sleeps well, gets fresh air – and doesn’t stay glued to revision every minute of the day – they are more likely to do well. Less sugary snacks and drinks – and more water, fruit and veg – are natural brain boosters too!
- Talk Talk Talk! Exam nerves are normal… Keep reassuring your teen that it’s OK to feel anxious to help them keep the exams in perspective. Use lots of positive talk, not negative ‘if you don’t pass…’ type language.
- Look online… Childline is a fantastic resource. There’s hints and tips galore to help your struggling teen manage their exam nerves this summer. Check this out!
As ever, our experienced tutor team across Manchester and Cheshire know all about exams!
When you need some last minute support for this year, or you want to help support your child taking exams next summer, get in touch with us here at 121 Home Tutors.
Tags: deep breathing techniques to help with exam anxiety, how to beat exam stress, how to manage exam nerves, school anxiety