Our 5 top tips for staying calm during the 11+:
Breathe Easy: Practice deep breathing exercises to calm those pre-test jitters. Inhale slowly, hold, and exhale gently. Repeat as needed to relax your mind.
Early to Bed, Early to Rise: Ensure a good night’s sleep before the test day. A well-rested mind performs better and handles stress more effectively.
Fuel Up Wisely: Have a healthy breakfast on the morning of the test. Foods like porridge, fruits, and whole grains provide sustained energy to keep you focused.
Positive Visualisation: Picture yourself confidently tackling the test. Visualising success can boost your confidence and reduce anxiety.
Time Management: During the test, allocate specific time for each section. Don’t dwell too long on one question; if you’re unsure, move on and come back later. This helps you stay on track and manage time effectively.
Our 10 Top Tips for Parents:
We understand that the 11+ can sometimes bring jitters for both kids and parents. As the big day approaches, here are some friendly hints and tips to ensure your child stays calm and confident during the 11+.
1. Start Early, Stay Relaxed
Kickstart preparations well in advance, but keep things relaxed. A steady, gradual approach over several months beats the stress of last-minute cramming.
2. Create a Cozy Study Spot
Help your child set up a comfy study corner, a place where they can dive into their studies without distractions. Good lighting and easy access to study materials are key.
3. Set Achievable Goals
Together with your child, set realistic goals for their preparation. Break it down into manageable steps, and celebrate every little achievement along the way.
4. Relaxation is the Key
Introduce your child to simple relaxation techniques like deep breathing or mindfulness exercises. These are like secret weapons against test-day jitters.
5. Healthy Eating and Sleep
A balanced diet and regular sleep schedule work wonders in stress management. Ensure your child gets enough rest and nutritious meals.
6. Break Time is Fun Time
Long study sessions without breaks can lead to burnout. Encourage your child to take short, fun breaks to recharge their brain.
7. Be Their Biggest Cheerleader
Offer a big dose of emotional support and motivation. Remind them that you’re proud of their hard work, no matter what the test results are.
8. Practice Makes Perfect
Ease your child’s nerves by practicing past papers. Familiarity with the test format boosts confidence and reduces test-day anxiety.
9. Prepare a Test-Day Checklist
Compile a checklist of things your child will need for the test—water bottle, snacks etc. Having everything ready ahead of time reduces last-minute stress.
10. Keep the Positivity Flowing
Maintain a positive atmosphere and reassure your child that the 11+ is just one part of their educational journey. Let them know you have full faith in their abilities.
The 11+ is a significant step, but it doesn’t have to be daunting. With these friendly hints and tips, you can create a supportive and relaxed environment that empowers your child to shine on test day. Your encouragement and understanding play a crucial role in helping them breeze through this experience with a smile.