Exam years can be one of the most stressful times in your teen’s life. Not only are they facing pressure from school to do well academically, but, they’re also having to deal with the consequences that their exam results could bring. Entering the exam years can be frightening for your teen, however, you can still help take the pressure off by preparing them for what’s ahead.
Impact on the household
Exam time can be stressful for the whole family, especially if your teen has younger siblings. Create a study room just for your teen. Make sure it's not their bedroom, as their brain would associate this as a place of relaxation instead of a place to focus. Make sure that you give your teen space during this time but inform them that you are there if they need any support.
Sleep
It goes without saying, but a good night’s sleep is extremely important during your teen’s exam year. Place a bedtime routine for your teen and if necessary, enforce it, even if they’re 18. Your teen needs sleep to focus on their revision, and to prevent any long-term health problems which could arise from lack of sleep.
Avoid procrastination
Most teens will procrastinate on their work, especially at the start of their exam year. Encourage your teen to start sooner rather than later with their study plans. This may not be a popular idea, but the exam year will pass quickly, and last minute cramming is never successful, especially for state examinations. A long-term study plan is the best way to overcome procrastination and exam stress.
Breaks
It’s vital that your teen builds in time to have fun and relax in between study sessions. Help them to develop a timetable that will help them to plan and track their progress, but also includes regular activities of relaxation. If they fit in down time in between study sessions they will not only be able to enjoy their free time a lot more, but also focus easier on their studies ahead.
While exam years can be hard, it’s important to remind your teen that they won’t last forever. Most of all, preparation and relaxation are the key to exam success.
