Supporting Your Child on Exam Results Day: A Guide for Parents
As the National 5, Highers, and Advanced Higher results are set to be released in Scotland on the 6th of August, many students and their families may feel a mix of anticipation, excitement, and anxiety. Whether your child’s results are as expected or not, your support can significantly impact how they process and respond to their achievements. Here are some practical tips on how to support your child before and on results day.
The Day Before Results
The day before results day can be particularly stressful for your child. To help them manage their anxiety and prepare for the next day, consider the following tips:
Encourage your child to get outside for some fresh air and exercise. Whether it’s a walk in the park, a stroll along the beach, or a hike, physical activity can help reduce stress and improve their mood.
Advise them to avoid caffeine, alcohol and energy drinks, which can increase anxiety and make it harder to sleep. Instead, suggest a calming evening routine: a warm bath, followed by a cup of hot chocolate or a soothing herbal tea.
Ensure they have a relaxing evening. Engage in a calming activity, such as reading a book, listening to music, or watching a favourite film. The goal is to help them unwind and distract their mind from the upcoming results.
Encourage an early night. A good night’s sleep is crucial for their emotional well-being and will help them face the day with a clearer mind.
Have a discussion with your child beforehand about their expectations and potential outcomes. Emphasise that exam results, while important, do not define their worth or future success. Discuss various scenarios and plans of action, whether the results are better than expected, as expected, or not as hoped. This helps reduce anxiety by knowing there is a plan in place for any situation.
On Results Day
Create a calm and supportive atmosphere at home. Avoid scheduling any significant events or commitments on results day so you can be fully present and focused on your child. Your own reaction can greatly influence your child’s emotions, so maintain a calm and reassuring demeanour, regardless of the results.
To make the morning special, prepare a favourite breakfast or a comforting drink for when the results come through. This small gesture can help start the day on a positive note and provide a sense of normalcy and comfort amidst the anticipation.
Offer Emotional Support
Let your child know you are there for them, ready to listen and support them without judgement. Acknowledge your child’s feelings, whether they are happy, disappointed, or confused. It’s important they feel their emotions are valid and understood.
Celebrate Achievements
Celebrate the hard work and dedication your child has put into their studies, regardless of the outcome. Effort and persistence are valuable traits worth acknowledging. Plan a small celebration or treat to mark the end of the exam period and the effort your child has invested.
Handling Disappointment
Reinforce the idea that one set of results does not determine their future. Many paths lead to success and fulfilment. If the results are not as hoped, discuss alternative pathways and opportunities, such as resits, alternative qualifications, apprenticeships, or other educational routes. Consider seeking advice from teachers or career advisers to help explore the available options and next steps.
Looking Ahead
Help your child set new academic or personal goals, fostering a sense of purpose and direction. Keep the lines of communication open as they make decisions about their next steps, offering guidance and support as needed.
Results day can be an emotional time for students and their families, but with the right support and perspective, it can also be a day of new beginnings.
SQA’s Candidate Advice Line will be available on Results Day from 8am to 6pm, then Wednesday 7 August to Friday 9 August from 8:30am to 5pm. The line can be reached on 0345 279 1000.
Skills Development Scotland’s helpline can be contacted on 0808 100 8000 and will be open from 8am to 8pm on Tuesday 6 August and Wednesday 7 August. It will be open 9am to 5pm on Thursday 8 August and Friday 9 August.