When Exam Stress Becomes Too Much – How You Can Support Your Child

As parents, we often say that it’s the hardest job in the world—and the most rewarding.

But there are moments when we simply don’t know what to do.

For many families, exam time is one of those moments.

Some children seem to take tests in their stride.  But for others, the pressure can feel overwhelming.

You might notice your child:

·         struggling to sleep

·         not eating as usual

·         complaining of headaches or ‘tummy aches’

·         becoming withdrawn or unusually emotional

·         and sometimes, they can’t even explain why they feel the way they do.

It might be fear of failure, a lack of confidence in a subject or the pressure of sitting in silence, feeling like they can’t ask for help.

My experience

When I worked in a village primary school as an Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA), I supported many children navigating these exact challenges.

Some were so overwhelmed by anxiety that they couldn’t come through the school gates.

And yet, with the right support, I saw those same children gradually rebuild their confidence—returning to school, engaging in their learning, and even beginning to enjoy their day again.

Those experiences have stayed with me, and they are a big part of why I now do the work I do.

Why Reassurance Isn’t Always Enough

As parents, our instinct is to comfort and reassure. We listen, we encourage, we say things like, “you’ll be fine.” And sometimes that helps.

But often, it doesn’t fully reach what’s going on beneath the surface. Because anxiety isn’t just in the mind—it’s in the body too.

What’s Happening Inside Your Child’s Brain

Inside the brain is a small but powerful part called the amygdala.  Think of it like a smoke alarm.

Its job is to detect danger and activate the body’s survival response—often known as fight, flight or freeze.  This response is incredibly helpful in real danger.

But the amygdala can’t tell the difference between a genuine threat to life and something stressful like an exam.

So, your child’s body reacts as if they are in danger—even when they are safe.

This is why you might see physical symptoms like tummy aches, restlessness, or difficulty sleeping.

A Gentle Way to Support Your Child: EFT (Tapping)

Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), often known as tapping, is a simple, gentle technique that helps to calm the nervous system.

I first discovered EFT during my own recovery from ME/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.

Experiencing its impact personally, I knew it was something that could also support children in a meaningful way and I began using this technique with children within school.

EFT works by combining gentle tapping on specific points of the body with focused attention on thoughts and feelings.

This helps to:

·         reduce anxiety

·         calm the body’s stress response

·         support emotional regulation

·         build confidence and resilience over time

It’s also something children can learn and use independently—giving them a tool they can carry with them for life.

How I Can Support You and Your Child

Through my work at CENTRE – Energy Alignment Coaching & EFT, I offer sessions tailored to children and young people.

Sessions are:

·         Available 1:1 or in small groups

·         Can be delivered online (so no added pressure to travel)

·         Designed to feel safe, supportive and age-appropriate

Every child is different, and sometimes a small amount of support can make a big difference.

From time to time, I offer small groups or individual sessions free of charge to support children around exam periods. If you’d like to find out what’s currently available, feel free to get in touch.