If your child is revising for GCSE exams, this can seem stressful for them and for you. This is a brand new experience and their results really do have an impact on their future. That’s pretty intense pressure. So how can we help them through this time and make it as stress free as possible?
Here are five suggestions that could make a big difference.
- Diet
Your teenager may just want to grab snacks as they study to give them quick energy bursts. However, it is more important than ever whilst studying that they eat a balanced and healthy diet. It is really helpful to keep them supplied with fruit, oatcakes and other healthy snack options and remind then to drink lots of water. Provide regular balanced meals and try and ensure they take a break for these. Avoid exam talk at the table or you could really put them off joining you!
- Exercise
Exercise boots energy levels and can relieve stress by clearing the mind and raising serotonin levels. Raised serotonin helps mood and memory so is very useful during exam time!
It is well worth encouraging our kids to stick at their sports despite their need to revise. It will help them enormously in so many ways, including sleep. Remind them too to get up and walk around if they have been sitting for a while.
- Sleep
Sleep is important for good memory and concentration. Studies have shown that late night cramming can cause poor performance, whereas optimum sleep enhances it. To get enough quality sleep it is advised that regular bed time and waking times are kept to. It is also advised that screen free time of at least an hour pre-bedtime can really aid sleep.
- Planning
A really clear, workable revision plan that is manageable and not overwhelming is key to keeping your child’s attitude positive and their confidence about knowing all they need to.
Helping them plan their revision and organise and adhere to their timetable, will hugely help their attitude towards their work. They will be more relaxed about it and you will not have to keep pressuring them.
- Revision Guides
Investing in some revision guides can really help to keep your child focussed and on track. Collins revision and practice books use a repeated and spaced practice method that has been proven to increase recall in the exam. The books are organised in a way that is easy to follow and will help them to improve their performance on the day.
