How to support your child during their exams

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Attendees will leave the session equipped with the following: A greater understanding of the worries and mental health issues that face children and young people in Herts schools Examples of what you can do as a parent, and practical tools for addressing the above An information sheet summarising useful local and national resources

Mental Health Continuum

Stress Bucket exercise

A greater understanding of the worries and mental health issues that face children and young people in Herts schools

Stress Curve

The Zone The best place to be on this chart for optimal performance is in the middle. Athletes call this “the zone”

Health Related Behaviour Survey Results 2016

Support available to your child at school

Tips on reducing exam stress Exam time is stressful. Be prepared through adequate revision, but also find time to relax. Encourage regular extra-curriculum activities such as sports, walking the dog, other hobbies. Encourage healthy eating and exercise as this will reduce stress and improve concentration. Do not pressure them to study. Encourage them. Try and find ways to help them study, showing your support.

When to worry For some young people they will become overly stressed during this time. There are some signs to watch out for. The most important thing to do is be understanding and listen. Do not dismiss their feelings / concerns. Help them to put it in perspective, while acknowledging their feelings.

Some possible signs of stress Effects on your feelings; Effects on your body; • feeling tired difficulty sleeping poor appetite stomach aches headaches aches and pains in your neck and shoulders colds dizziness / blurred vision feeling sad being irritable, losing your temper easily finding it hard to concentrate forgetfulness

Activity- planning ahead Resilience in children and young people – how good physical and mental health can help children cope with whatever life throws at them. Activity- planning ahead During the exam period what do you think would be useful for your child for their; physical health? mental health?

Tools for young people needing additional support Kooth https://kooth.com/ Health for Teens website http://www.healthforteens.co.uk/ Chat health Local community counselling services for YP Young minds website https://youngminds.org.uk/ YC Hertfordshirehttp://www.youthconnexions-hertfordshire.org/advice-and-support/ Five ways to wellbeing

So, what can I do as a parent? We’ve talked today about some of the things you can do and resources you can use Encourage your child, do not add to the pressure Ask questions about how they are generally, not just if they have done their revision/homework Be aware; notice changes in behaviour / appearance