Webinar
Below are the tips we shared on supporting your children.
God has called us into a *living* relationship with Him and those around us especially our families, children in particular.
By investing time, we are able to be effective in supporting their journey into their growth.
– Loving them despite and beyond the grades is key.
– Love propels us to invest time in prayer for them.
– Supporting them with their studies throughout the year is more important than exam day.
– Speak to their teachers, be involved at school.
– For most of us, the education system is a whole new experience. Seek to learn from others, ask questions, be open and willing to learn.
– Let’s be sensitive and empathetic towards other parents who may seem to be struggling at school.
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Here are seven effective strategies:
1. Create a Study-Friendly Environment
•Why: A quiet, organized space helps concentration and reduces distractions.
•How:
• Dedicate a specific area for studying, free from noise and clutter.
• Provide good lighting, comfortable seating, and necessary stationery.
• Encourage short, focused study sessions using the Pomodoro technique (25 minutes of work, 5 minutes of break).
2. Establish a Study Routine
•Why: A consistent routine reduces anxiety and builds productive habits.
•How:
• Work together to create a realistic revision timetable, balancing core subjects and weaker areas.
• Include regular breaks and time for relaxation to prevent burnout.
• Monitor progress and adjust the plan if needed.
3. Manage Phone and Social Media Usage
•Why: Phones and social media can be major distractions during study time.
•How:
• Agree on “phone-free” study times and use apps like Forest or Focus Booster to block distractions.
• Designate times for social media use, ideally during breaks or after study sessions.
• Lead by example by minimizing your own screen time during family hours.
4. Encourage a Balanced Lifestyle
•Why: Physical activity, sleep, and a healthy diet improve focus and reduce stress.
•How:
• Promote regular exercise, such as walks, yoga, or sports.
• Ensure they get 8-9 hours of sleep each night by setting consistent bedtimes.
• Provide nutritious meals and encourage hydration, avoiding excess caffeine or sugary snacks.
5. Offer Emotional Support
•Why: GCSEs can be stressful, and children need to feel supported and understood.
•How:
• Listen to their concerns without judgment and offer reassurance.
• Avoid comparing them to peers or siblings.
• Celebrate small achievements to boost their confidence and motivation.
6. Encourage Active Revision Techniques
•Why: Passive studying is less effective than active learning.
•How:
• Suggest methods like mind maps, flashcards, practice exams, and teaching concepts to others.
• Use online resources, such as GCSEPod, BBC Bitesize, or Seneca Learning, to diversify study approaches.
• Discuss difficult topics together to help them articulate their understanding.
7. Model a Growth Mindset
•Why: A positive attitude can reduce anxiety and encourage perseverance.
•How:
• Emphasize effort over results: “It’s about doing your best, not being perfect.”
• Share examples from your own life where persistence led to improvement.
• Remind them that setbacks are learning opportunities, not failures.
Bonus Tip: Stay Involved
Regularly check in on their progress and well-being without micromanaging. Balance support with independence to build their confidence in managing their responsibilities.