With the Easter holidays just around the corner this time typically signifies for most GCSE and A Level pupils the start of the revision period.
As a educator who lives amongst nearly 70 we know how stressful the revision and the exam season can be but there are things we can do to help our kids navigate this next step.
Create a structured revision plan: Help your child create a study plan that outlines what topics they need to cover, how much time they should allocate for each subject, and when they plan to take breaks. Be realistic with the time - if they say they will revise for 8 hours per day let me tell you they won't, be realistic with their time commitments because having an unrealistic revision timetable and trying to stick to it, quite frankly you might as well not bother.
Use a variety of learning methods: Encourage your child to use different learning methods, such as creating mind maps, using flashcards, practicing past papers, and watching educational videos. Get supplies of index cards, highlighters, post it notes in stock.
Focus on key topics: Encourage your child to focus on key topics that are likely to come up in the exam, based on the exam syllabus and past papers.
Practice makes perfect: Practice is essential for exam success, so encourage your child to practice past papers and take mock exams to help them get familiar with the exam format and improve their confidence. There are many websites that provide past papers for free.
Minimize distractions: Create a distraction-free environment for your child to study in, and make sure they have everything they need before they start studying to minimize interruptions.
Take breaks: Encourage your child to take regular breaks to avoid burnout and help them stay focused. Short, frequent breaks are better than long, infrequent ones. Keep them topped up with fluids and snacks - trust me these really help when keeping moral high.
Use positive reinforcement: Encourage your child and praise them for their hard work and progress. Positive reinforcement can help motivate your child and improve their confidence.
Ensure adequate sleep and nutrition: Make sure your child gets enough sleep and eats a healthy diet during the revision period. This can help improve their concentration and energy levels.
Keep calm and relaxed: Keep your child calm and relaxed during the revision period. Help them manage their stress and anxiety levels, and remind them to take breaks and get enough sleep.
Encourage them to ask for help: Encourage your child to ask for help if they are struggling with any aspect of their revision. This could be a teacher, tutor, or even a study partner. Maybe even plan a study date - let them invite a friend over to help collaborate in their revision.
And my main piece of advice for my parents of the pupils in my care is don't get angry with them. Yes it can be frustrating when they don't appear to be revising how you used to. Be patient. No matter how much you shout, get frustrated, fall out, only THEY can take exam, remember these are their exams they are not yours and you will need to support them and be there for them as once exam season starts the stress gets real and then more than ever they will need you there.
Nat x