Exam time can be a stressful period for teens, and parents often find themselves unsure of how best to help. While preparing for VCE can be overwhelming, there are several ways you can support your teen emotionally and practically, without adding pressure or trying to “fix” things for them.
Here’s a recap from one of our favourite blogs, Top 5 Tips to Prevent Study Burnout, and some new tips to help parents navigate this challenging time with their teens.
Focus on Emotional Support – Stop Trying to Fix it
It’s natural to want to jump in with solutions, but sometimes the most powerful support you can offer is simply being there for your teen. Holding space means listening without judgment and allowing them to vent or express their feelings without offering immediate advice. This can help reduce pressure, especially when your teen feels overwhelmed.
Acknowledging Their Feelings
Emotion coaching is about validating your teen’s emotions. For instance, instead of dismissing their stress with phrases like “It’s not that bad,” try acknowledging it by saying, “I can see how this feels really stressful for you right now.” This kind of response helps teens feel understood and supported.
Offer to Share Tasks and Make It Fun
Your teen might be feeling burdened by chores or other household tasks, which can feel like an added weight during exam time. Offering to temporarily reduce their responsibilities or share tasks can be a huge relief. You could even try to make it fun by offering to do these together, like folding laundry while listening to music, for example. This not only lightens their load but also provides a moment of connection and relaxation.
Body Doubling
I love this technique—it’s one of my favourites and one I use a lot. Sometimes I find just having someone nearby while I work can help me stay on track. Try it with your teen: offer to go together to a library or co-working space, or maybe you have some work you can do at the same time. This could help your teen stay focused. Body doubling is a technique where you quietly sit with your teen while they study, providing silent support. Whether you’re reading or working on your own tasks, your presence can help them stay on track without feeling isolated.
Encourage Rest Breaks and Movement
It’s important to remind your teen to take regular rest breaks. Physical movement, like stretching, walking, or doing a short workout, can help clear their mind and recharge their energy. Encourage them to step away from their desk, get some fresh air, or move their body in a way that feels good. If they’re struggling, do it together. You can walk in silence or listen to music, shoot some hoops, have a kick of a ball, or even try juggling! What you do isn’t as important as doing something physical—it helps reduce stress levels and is good for the brain.
Encourage Hobbies and Social Time
Fun Matters. Make sure there’s space in their schedule for something enjoyable. Whether it’s time for a hobby, hanging out with friends, or watching their favourite show, downtime is crucial for mental health. Staying connected to friends and family, even in small ways, can help reduce feelings of isolation.
By supporting your teen with empathy, creating space for breaks, and sharing the load, you can help them manage the stress of exams in a healthy, balanced way.
By Marie Vakakis
Marie Vakakis is a skilled therapist and mental health educator who helps couples build trust, commitment, and meaningful rituals of connection. Her compassionate approach supports couples in deepening their bonds and creating fulfilling relationships.
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