Supporting Young People Through Exam Season
- Kate Kotlarska
- May 16
- 3 min read
Updated: May 29
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 specific for parents and carers
They may not be the state of art and I got a bit emotional at the end of the parental one, but they are a helpful resource you and yours can use as an introduction to EFT.
For those unfamiliar with EFT, it's a technique that works with acupuncture points while addressing specific emotions. Research has now 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 get you started on reducing stress and anxiety day by day. Of course, YouTube offers countless EFT videos if you'd like to explore further options - I encourage you to try different approaches and notice how the practice makes you feel.
Some Practical Ways to Support Exam Students
Create a Supportive Home Environment
Maintain a calm, low-pressure atmosphere at home
Ensure basics: prioritize good sleep, proper nutrition, and physical movement
Help create a quiet, organized study space
Temporarily reduce chores and family obligations
Adjust household routines to accommodate study schedules
Practical Support
Offer to help with organization through study timetables or exam calendars
Ensure they have necessary supplies and materials
Reduce travel stress by helping with transportation to exams if possible
Prepare healthy, brain-boosting foods and snacks - berries, avocado, seeds, nuts if there is no allergies, seafood rich in omega 3 feeding the brain, black beans nourish the kidneys which in return support the brain, we can sneak in some dark chocolate too.
Gently encourage breaks when they're overworking-
Movement & Stretching: In Traditional Chinese Medicine, we emphasize the importance of movement for physical and mental health. Walking is perfect, and gentle stretches can be helpful too. Here are some short and simple yoga resources:
For students:
https://youtu.be/FICMIOf8uk0?si=IdCJ8L5lynEsLNjX
https://youtu.be/Nnd5Slo02us?si=FxazE3TqoUGKIkyR
https://youtu.be/YbAYMQC_ZaE?si=0qKWrCBwJCnUssIg
For parents and carers:
Emotional Support
Listen more than you speak, letting them vent without rushing to solve problems
Validate that exam stress is real and challenging
Remind them that exams don't define their worth or future
Express confidence in their abilities without adding pressure
Watch for warning signs if stress becomes overwhelming. You may want to try Rescue Remedy a gentle Bach flower combination of 5 flowers to aid anxiety and stresss:
I have 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 ([www.nelsons.com/pages/rescue]), which offers both standard and night time formulas. For pet owners, they also make formulations for animals. Another company that make Bach Flower remedies is Healing Herbs: They offer a specific exam formula available as either an alcohol-based spray or sugar pills: [www.healingherbs.co.uk/5-flower/exam/]
While I'm available for individual sessions until summer holidays, appointments are limited as I'm carefully balancing work and family commitments during this period.
Wishing you and your exam-takers calm and clarity during this time!
Kate
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