11-Plus preparation can be stressful for parents & students
It's that time of year again. The time when parents across the country start to feel the weight of their child's future on their shoulders. The 11+ exam is looming, and with it, the stress and anxiety that comes with it.
As a parent, it's essential to try and manage your stress and anxiety levels, as well as your child's. Here are some tips on how to do just that:
1. Talk to your child about their concerns
Before anything else, it's crucial to have a conversation with your child about their thoughts and feelings regarding the 11+. This will help you to understand their anxieties and how best to support them.
2. Encourage a healthy lifestyle
A healthy body equals a healthy mind. Make sure your child is eating well and getting plenty of exercise. This will help them to feel calmer and more able to cope with the stress of the exam.
3. Limit screen time
This is something that will benefit both you and your child. Too much screen time can lead to increased levels of anxiety, so make sure you limit it in the lead-up to the exam.
4. Create a study plan
One of the best ways to combat stress and anxiety is to be prepared. Sit down with your child and create a study plan outlining what they need to revise and when. This will help to keep them focused and on track.
Have you seen Examly's study plan feature? Try it here: https://portal.examly.ai/
5. Take breaks
It's important to remember that your child is not a machine. They need time to relax and de-stress. Make sure they take regular breaks from studying and encourage them to do things they enjoy outside of school and 11+ prep.
6. Practice exams
One of the best ways to prepare for the 11+ is to sit practice exams. This will help your child get used to the format and timing of the exam and give them a better understanding of what to expect.
Try mock exams for free on Examly: https://portal.examly.ai/
7. Seek professional help
If you feel like you or your child are struggling to cope with the stress and anxiety of the 11+, seek professional help. There is no shame in admitting that you need support, and there are plenty of people out there who can help.
The 11+ exam is a big deal, but it's important to remember that it's not the be-all and end-all. Your child is more than just a test score. As long as you support them and help them prepare, they will be fine.
