Supporting Children Through Exams: Resources for Parents

I wanted to reach out especially to those of you with children sitting or about to sit exams, or if you know someone currently going through this challenging time.

As a fellow stressed parent, I've channeled my energy into creating resources while my own children navigate their GCSEs and A levels. I'm pleased to share two short EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques) tapping videos I've created: one specifically for students

and another one specifically for parents and carers.

Though they may not be state-of-the-art and I get a bit emotional at the end of the parental video, they are helpful resources for you and your children. They serve as a great introduction to EFT.

What is EFT?

For those unfamiliar with EFT, it's a technique that works with acupuncture points while addressing specific emotions. Research has confirmed its effectiveness for anxiety, depression, phobias, and PTSD. You can read more about the scientific evidence here.

The key to success with EFT is regular practice. My short videos are designed to help you reduce stress and anxiety day by day. Of course, YouTube offers countless EFT videos if you'd like to explore more options. I encourage you to try different approaches and notice how the practice makes you feel.

Supporting young people through exams

Practical Ways to Support Exam Students

Create a Supportive Home Environment

• Maintain a calm atmosphere: Keep the home environment low-pressure. This will help reduce anxiety.

• Prioritize essentials: Ensure your child gets good sleep, proper nutrition, and physical movement. These factors contribute significantly to their well-being.

• Organize a study space: Create a quiet, organized area specifically for studying.

• Adjust family chores: Temporarily reduce chores and family obligations to allow for more focused study time.

• Modify routines: Make adjustments to household routines to accommodate your child's study schedule.

  
  

Offer Practical Support

• Help with organization: Assist your child in creating study timetables or exam calendars to keep track of their commitments.

• Provide materials: Ensure they have the necessary supplies, such as books and stationery.

• Transportation assistance: Help with transportation to exams if possible to relieve some stress.

• Prepare healthy snacks: Brain-boosting foods can make a difference. Encourage foods like berries, avocados, seeds, and nuts (if there are no allergies). Omega-3-rich seafood is also beneficial, as is dark chocolate in moderation.

  
  

Movement & Stretching

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, we emphasize the importance of movement for both physical and mental health. Walking is a great option, and gentle stretching can be helpful too. Here are some short and simple yoga resources:

For Students:

• Yoga Video 1

• Yoga Video 2

• Yoga Video 3

  
  

For Parents and Carers:

• Yoga Video 4

• Yoga Video 5

• Yoga Video 6

  
  

Provide Emotional Support

• Listen actively: Allow your child to express their feelings without rushing to solve their problems. Sometimes, they just need a listening ear.

• Validate their feelings: Acknowledge that exam stress is real and challenging for students.

• Reassure them: Remind your child that exams do not define their worth or future.

• Express confidence: Show faith in their abilities without adding extra pressure.

• Watch for signs of stress: If anxiety becomes overwhelming, consider gentle remedies. For instance, you might try Rescue Remedy, a gentle Bach flower combination of five flowers aimed at reducing anxiety and stress.

  
  

  I keep bottles and pills everywhere—in bags, throughout the house, and in the car! Rescue is widely available at local pharmacies and larger supermarkets. Many of you likely know Nelson's brand (Nelsons), offering both standard and nighttime formulas. They even have formulations for pets! Another reputable company is Healing Herbs, which offers a specific exam formula available as either an alcohol-based spray or sugar pills: Healing Herbs Exam Formula.

  
  

Supporting young people through exams with food.

While I'm available for individual sessions until summer holidays, appointments are limited. I'm carefully balancing work and family commitments during this busy period.

Wishing you and your exam-takers calm and clarity during this time!

Kate