Exam stress

Exams can be stressful. While most cope well, some teenagers feel the pressure and worry about failure. It's understandable you want them to do well, so they will have plenty of opportunities in the future. But it's very important you stay calm, positive and reassuring – and have realistic expectations.

Helpful tips

• Try not to be too anxious; you can help best by listening and being supportive.
• Reassure them they will get through their exams.
• Bribes or presents for high grades are not the best approach – far better to encourage them to work for their own satisfaction with small, regular rewards for effort.
• Help them study by being flexible with chores.
• Talk to the school if they may need extra support, as many schools offer revision and catch-up classes.
• Make sure they have a comfortable study area – and be flexible if they like television or loud music at the same time.
• Suggest they study one subject at a time.
• Help them work out a study plan.
• Encourage them to talk to friends about how best to cope with pressure.
• Get them to have plenty of sleep, healthy food and physical activity.
• On the day, make sure they eat breakfast and have a checklist of things to remember and prepare.
• As each exam is finished, listen to their concerns but encourage them to focus ahead.
• Celebrate the last exam so that they feel recognised for having done their best, whatever the result may be.