A parent’s guide to eliminating stress in exam season

FIRST AND foremost, be ready to listen to your teen and let them know that you’re available. Share empathy and offer guidance but don’t rush to impose solutions.

PROVIDE A quiet, clear study space such as a dining room table — although they’ll need to clear it in time for Friday night dinner! Stock up on stationery supplies and healthy snacks such as fresh fruit, dried fruit and nuts.

OFFER TO help your teen to devise a plan but don’t do it for them. Demonstrate how to create a checklist of top- ics and allocate time for bite-sized tasks, allowing for plenty of breaks.

DON’T OVERLOAD the timetable with extra-curricular activities, family commitments and tutors. And if you use a tutor ask how they’ll empower your teen to study independently.

TRY TO limit interruptions. Discuss how they can monitor their progress and encourage them to share achievements with you but don’t hover!

PICK YOUR battles or at least postpone them till after exams. If you notice clothes accumulating on the ‘floordrobe’ of your teen’s room, for example, take a deep breath and close the door.

TALK TO your teen constructively about managing distractions. Invite them to take responsibility by suggesting solutions. Confiscating phones or switching off the wi-fi won’t help them learn to make decisions. STAY IN touch with your teen’s school, ask about exam preparations and communicate any concerns to relevant staff.

Don’t plan for your teen, or hover over them

REMIND YOUR teen that there are different paths to success. Not everyone needs to achieve A*s or to go to university. www.jlpcoach.com