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Writer's pictureCate Taylor

Navigating Exam Season: A Parent's Guide to Supporting Teenagers

Students taking exams in French, Spanish, English  GCSE IB A level

As exam season rolls around, talking to your teenagers about their studies can be a tricky balancing act. I can say things to students I tutor which are taken as helpful advice, but say the exact same thing to my own daughter and fireworks may well follow!




Here are a few tips to keep those conversations constructive and supportive:


1. Be empathetic: Remember, exams can be stressful. Approach your teen with understanding and empathy. Acknowledge their hard work and the pressure they might be feeling.


Running shoes exercising between exams and revision


2. Encourage balance: While exams are important, remind your teen to maintain a balance between studying and self-care. Encourage breaks, physical activity, and relaxation to keep stress levels in check.




3. Listen actively: Give your teen the space to express their concerns and feelings about exams. Listen attentively without judgment, and offer your support and guidance when needed.


4. Offer practical support: Help your teen create a study schedule or provide resources they might need. Offer to quiz them or help them with difficult topics if you can.


5. Focus on effort, not outcomes: Emphasise the importance of hard work and effort, regardless of the exam results. Encourage your teen to do their best, but also remind them that their worth isn't determined solely by their grades.


6. Stay positive: Keep the atmosphere at home positive and encouraging. Remind your teen of their strengths and capabilities, and express confidence in their ability to do well.


I noted down a few tips for myself as a parent (rather than a tutor!) from this article today: What not to say to your kids during exam season


By approaching conversations about exams with understanding, support, and positivity, you can hopefully help your teenager navigate this challenging time with confidence and resilience. Good luck to all the students and their parents out there!


If you enjoyed this you may find my blog on revision a useful read.



Cate is a qualified teacher with more than 20 years of experience teaching in schools and she has most recently dedicated her time to tutoring both online and face to face. Current and past students come from the New Forest, across the UK, Spain, Switzerland, France, Spain, Hong Kong and Australia. Cate has a waiting list for all hours outside of the UK school day but can often find space for those in other time zones (such as Hong Kong and Singapore, UAE, Malaysia) or adults who are able to have a lesson during the day.

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