How to help kids put exam setbacks into perspective

Disappointing results can be a tough blow for teens - but there really is more to life than grades. IMY BRIGHTY-POTTS looks at how parents can offer support

- IMY BRIGHTY-POTTS

WITH results day around the corner, your child might be feeling stressed about what comes next if academia isn't their thing, or they don't think they performed well in their GCSEs or A Levels.

As a parent, you may find it difficult to know what to say beyond clichés if their exam results aren't 'glowing, especially when you know your teenager has strengths outside of the exam hall.

So, how can you respond supportively? And what qualities can you reassure them are more important than exam results?

Be there for them first

Your child is likely to be upset - read the room and consider their emotions before diving in with advice or questions, or expressing your own feelings about the situation.

"While it is only natural to feel your own sense of disappointment, as best as possible, we need to put aside our emotional response and be a calm, safe place for our kids," says psychologist and author of SelfCare For Tough Times, Suzy Reading.

"It can help to identify a time later to express your own feelings - you're not stuffing them down or denying them, you'll make space to bear witness to them later," Suzy adds.