Supporting An Anxious Child Through Exams

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Exam periods can be stressful for children, even those who generally handle schoolwork well. Anxiety around exams is common, but with the right support, parents and caregivers can help children navigate this period calmly and confidently.

Understanding Exam Anxiety

This private school in Hampton suggests that exam anxiety often stems from fear of failure, pressure to perform, or feeling unprepared. Children may experience physical symptoms such as stomach aches, headaches, or trouble sleeping. Emotional signs include irritability, low mood, or frequent worry. Recognising these signs early can help you provide the support your child needs before anxiety escalates.

Create a Positive Study Environment

A calm, organised space for studying can make a significant difference. Ensure your child has a quiet area, free from distractions, with all the necessary resources like pens, paper, and textbooks. Encourage short, focused study sessions with regular breaks, rather than long, exhausting hours. A structured timetable can help children feel more in control, reducing feelings of overwhelm.

Encourage Healthy Lifestyle Habits

Physical wellbeing directly impacts mental wellbeing. Encourage your child to get regular sleep, eat balanced meals, and stay active. Exercise helps reduce stress hormones and improves concentration, making study time more productive. Even short walks or simple stretching exercises can calm nerves and reset focus. Avoid excessive caffeine or sugar, which can heighten feelings of anxiety.

Teach Relaxation Techniques

Simple relaxation strategies can help children manage anxious thoughts. Breathing exercises, mindfulness practices, or gentle yoga can be effective tools. Encouraging your child to take a few minutes each day to practise deep breathing or guided relaxation can help them approach exams with a calmer mindset. For younger children, make these exercises playful and engaging, so they feel like fun breaks rather than chores.

Offer Emotional Support

Listening without judgement is key. Let your child share worries and fears openly, validating their feelings rather than dismissing them. Remind them that exams are just one part of their learning journey and do not define their worth. Positive reinforcement, encouragement, and reassurance go a long way in building confidence. Celebrate small achievements along the way, whether it’s completing a study session or understanding a tricky topic.

Know When to Seek Professional Help

In some cases, exam anxiety may become severe enough to interfere with everyday life. If your child experiences persistent panic attacks, chronic insomnia, or overwhelming fear, seeking guidance from a school counsellor, educational psychologist, or mental health professional may be necessary. Early intervention can prevent anxiety from affecting academic performance and long-term wellbeing.

Supporting an anxious child through exams is about creating a balance of structure, emotional reassurance, and healthy coping strategies. By recognising signs of stress, fostering a positive study environment, encouraging healthy habits, and providing emotional support, parents and caregivers can help children approach exams with confidence and resilience. With patience and understanding, children can learn not only to manage exam stress but also to build lifelong skills in coping with challenges.