Parenting through exams.

I'm a parent, but my child is still young. At the moment, exam preparation for us means remembering which book characters are which. I have a few years before I need to worry about things like GCSEs and A levels, but I can't wait! 😉

Parenting through exams can be a challenge. It's a time of stress, pressure, and late nights, not just for your child but for you, too. While they are the ones sitting the exams, your support is crucial to their success. When they say, "I know all of this," they probably don't. And when they say, "I don't get any of this," they probably do. Here's some practical advice to help you support them through revision:

1. Start early. The earlier you begin preparing, the better. Encourage your child to start revising weeks, or even months, before the exams. This will help prevent last-minute cramming and reduce stress. A structured, early start also allows for breaks and a more balanced approach to studying.
   

2. Help them get organised. A tidy mind starts with a tidy workspace. Help them declutter their desk and study area. Make sure they have all the necessary supplies—pens, paper, highlighters, and subject-specific textbooks. Organisation is the first step toward effective revision.
   

3. Create a revision timetable. Together, draw up a realistic revision timetable. This should break down subjects into manageable chunks and include time for breaks, meals, and fun activities. A good timetable helps your child feel in control and reduces the feeling of being overwhelmed. Remember to be flexible; if they want to switch subjects around, that's okay.
   

4. Test their knowledge. It's not enough to just read notes. Encourage your child to actively recall information. You can help by testing them. Ask them questions from their textbooks or flashcards. This will help identify areas they need to focus on and build their confidence.
   

5. Look after their well-being. This is perhaps the most important point. Ensure your child is getting enough sleep, eating well, and taking regular breaks. Encourage them to do something they enjoy, whether it's playing a sport or watching a movie. Remind them that their value is not determined by their grades. Your support and reassurance are the best things you can offer during this stressful period.
   

It's tempting to think that buying every revision book and a mountain of new stationery will solve everything, but this can actually be more overwhelming than helpful. Many commercial textbooks either lack sufficient detail or are too dense and dry. A much better strategy is to ask their teachers for specific, recommended resources. We, for example, provide our students with free revision materials on everything they need to know for the exam, ensuring they have the most relevant information without the clutter.