Supporting Your Child With Their Exam Revision *

Exam season can be a stressful time for both students and their families. As a parent or carer, you play a crucial role in helping your child feel prepared, confident and supported. Inspired by the teachings of this independent school in Surrey, here are some practical ways you can help them through their revision journey.

Create a Calm and Comfortable Study Environment

A quiet, organised space can make a huge difference to your child’s ability to focus. Ideally, this should be somewhere with minimal distractions, good lighting and everything they need close to hand – from pens and paper to a clock or timer. Make sure the area is free from interruptions like TV or noisy siblings, and allow them to personalise it to feel more comfortable.

Encourage a Realistic Revision Schedule

Help your child plan a revision timetable that is manageable and realistic. Breaking study time into small, focused chunks with regular breaks can be far more effective than long hours of cramming. Encourage them to tackle the more challenging topics first, when they’re most alert, and build in time for review and relaxation.

Promote Healthy Habits

It’s easy for young people to fall into bad habits during revision time – staying up late, skipping meals or relying on caffeine. Encourage a balanced routine that includes proper sleep, nutritious meals and physical activity. Even a short daily walk or some stretching exercises can boost mood and concentration.

Be a Positive Source of Motivation

Try to stay calm and encouraging, even if your child is feeling anxious or unmotivated. Recognise their efforts, not just their results, and praise them for sticking to their plan or improving their understanding. A positive attitude from you can help them believe in their own abilities.

Provide Practical Help Where Needed

Whether it’s helping to test them on vocabulary, reading through an essay or talking through a tricky maths problem, offering your support can make revision feel less isolating. Just knowing someone is there to listen or explain things can boost their confidence.

Encourage Downtime and Relaxation

It’s important to remind your child that rest is just as important as work. Encourage them to take time off from revision to relax with friends, enjoy a hobby or simply unwind. These breaks help recharge their brain and reduce feelings of burnout.

Stay Informed and Involved

Make sure you’re aware of their exam dates, any school expectations, and what resources are available – such as past papers, online tools or revision sessions at school. Staying involved shows your child that you’re invested in their success without adding extra pressure.

Supporting your child with their exam revision isn’t about doing the work for them – it’s about helping them feel prepared, balanced and confident. With the right encouragement, healthy routines and a calm environment, your child is far more likely to thrive, both in their exams and beyond.