Most qualifications have an exam element where children are tested on what they have learned throughout the duration of their course. As they count towards their overall mark and affect future opportunities, they are no doubt stressful. What can help is early preparation. Starting revision at the earliest opportunity means that children have enough time to memorise concepts, get the support that they need, and feel more confident walking into their exams. In this post, we share top tips from a boarding school in London on how to help children with exam revision.
Top Tips for Helping Your Child with their Exam Revision
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Rest
There’s a feeling of guilt children experience when not using their time productively and revising. However, breaks are essential for concentration. Revising for long periods can actually be counterproductive in that sense and lead to burnout. Instead, encourage your child to have short study bursts.
Talk to Them
Nerves are to be expected with exams and any major events, but what’s important is that we find a way of managing them. When we stress, we can often procrastinate, which is not ideal for children during exam season. It can also make it difficult for them to retain information and perform well. To help your child, speak to them about their exam worries and see if there’s anything that you can do to help.
Learn What Works for Them
For revision to be effective, children must study according to their learning style. There are three main types that children can belong to; kinaesthetic, visual and auditory learning styles. If you’re not sure as to which your child has, completing a VARK survey will give an accurate idea. Using what you learn, you can find revision methods that work best for your child. For example, if they have a visual learning style, they might like mind maps and flashcards.
Create Space
Revision requires a calm environment where children can focus and hear themselves think. If you have the space, look for where you can set up a study area for your child, or alternatively, look for measures you can put in place to limit distractions.
Reassurance
Lastly, children need reassurance that everything’s going to be okay. To help them with the pressure they are under, reassure your child that their exams will soon be over, that you’re proud of them and that at the end of the day, despite their importance, grades don’t define them. There are various routes and career paths children can explore without straight A’s.
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