Top Tips Series: helping your child cope with exam stress

Last Updated - October 1, 2025

Make sure your child eats well – A balanced diet is vital for your child’s health, and can help them feel well during exam periods. Where possible, involve your child in shopping for food and encourage them to choose some healthy snacks.
Encourage your child to get enough sleep – Good sleep improves thinking and concentration. Most teenagers need 8 to 10 hours’ sleep a night. Allow half an hour or so for your child to wind down between studying, watching TV or using a computer and going to bed.
Be flexible during exams – Be flexible around exam time. When your child is revising all day, do not worry about household jobs left undone or untidy bedrooms. Staying calm yourself can help. Remember, exams do not last forever.
Talk about exam nerves – Remind your child that it’s normal to feel anxious. Nervousness is a natural reaction to exams. The key is to put these nerves to positive use.
Encourage exercise during exams – Exercise can help boost energy levels, clear the mind and relieve stress. It does not matter what it is – walking, cycling, swimming, football and dancing are all effective. Activities that involve other people can be particularly helpful.
Don’t add to the pressure! Support group Childline says many children who contact them feel that most pressure at exam time comes from their family.Listen to your child, give them support and avoid criticism.