Some stress helps performance; too much blocks it. The signs of unhealthy stress include sleep problems, avoiding revision entirely, headaches and irritability. The antidotes are boring but proven: consistent sleep, regular meals, exercise and predictable routines.
Help your child break revision into small, winnable chunks and celebrate completing them. Teach the 'five-minute rule': commit to just five minutes of work, which almost always turns into a full session. Keep reassuring them that exams are one path, not the whole future.
If stress becomes overwhelming, see our YoungMinds and Childline listings. Our tutors also run wellbeing check-ins during exam season - ask us at Saturday sessions.
Was this resource helpful?
Your feedback helps us decide what to add next.