WHEN encouraging good study techniques, a study timetable is a good starting point.

An hour or so of study followed by a short break is a good amount of time, though getting a balance that suits your child is all-important.

Constant study and worrying about exams can inhibit the ability to think effectively. It’s essential that all your child’s energies are not used up studying as they will need to keep something in the tank for the exam.

Using films as a revision technique is brilliant; this works well if the film is watched by a group of friends or family as follow-up discussions can give different interpretations of the content.

Sleep is essential for refreshing the brain, especially if there are exams the following morning. Make sure the room is dark as light interferes with production of the sleep hormone, melatonin. Make it a rule there are no screens an hour before bedtime.

After all is said and done, your child can only do their best, and a pass is good enough for subjects they don’t excel in.

If your child does have a meltdown your love, patience, empathy and understanding will go a long way with helping them cope with the stress they are feeling. Avoid the temptation to give a practical solution to an emotional problem though; a hug or a soothing word will have more effect than you looking at their exam timetable and calculating how much time they have left!

The old adage does still apply - if at first you don’t succeed… there is always a re-sit!

See: www.parentandbabycoach.co.uk

NEXT WEEK: communicating with your teens