Don't Leave Parents Out: How School-Home Partnerships Can Ease Exam Stress
Exams are a high-pressure time—not just for students, but for the whole school community. While teachers work hard to prepare students academically, families at home play a powerful role in helping students manage their stress, stay focused, and feel emotionally supported.
That’s why it’s essential for schools to actively involve parents in their communication strategy around exam season.
- Keep Parents in the Loop
Many parents want to help but feel unsure how to support their child during exams. Regular updates from school—not just on dates and revision tips, but also on student wellbeing—can make a huge difference.
👉 Share any new approaches you’re using to help students manage stress, whether it's breathing exercises, mindfulness routines, or resilience lessons.
When parents know what’s happening in school, they can re-inforce these techniques at home, creating consistency for their children.
- Ask for Their Involvement
Let parents know that their role is vital.
Encourage them to:
- Check in gently on how their child is feeling—not just whether they’ve revised.
- Support a revision routine that includes breaks and sleep.
- Help their child set up a calm, distraction-free study space.
Even small reminders from trusted adults at home can reinforce the importance of balance, mindset, and rest.
- Create a Nourishing Environment
During exams, physical wellbeing affects mental performance. Recommend that parents:
- Stock the kitchen with brain-friendly snacks like fruit, nuts, smoothies, and water.
- Avoid too much caffeine and energy drinks, which can increase anxiety.
- Ensure students are getting enough sleep and movement.
A healthy body is good for a focused brain.
- Encourage 2-way Communication
Stress can build quickly if a student is struggling in silence. Remind families to:
- Stay connected with Form Tutors, Pastoral Staff, or Year Leads if they notice signs of overwhelm.
- Reach out early if their child is feeling anxious or withdrawn.
- Take up any school-offered resources like mindfulness sessions or parent webinars.
- Offer Tools That Parents Can Use Too
If your school is using tools like the Exam Stress Bundle, let parents know they’re welcome to use the resources at home too.
The bundle includes:
- Breathing and calm-down MP3s
- Cheat sheets on how to handle panic
- Visuals that explain stress thinking
- And tools to help students plan and manage their time
When home and school are on the same page, students feel safer—and perform better.
✅ Final Thought:
Parents are your best allies during exam time. Let’s make sure they’re not just informed—they’re involved.
🧠💛 Want to give families the tools they need to reduce exam stress at home?
👉 Point them to the Exam Stress Bundle here—it’s built for school and home use.