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Written by Ethan Steven

Published 9 months ago

10 Ways Parents Can Help Their Child Prepare for the 11+ Exam

Read Time:8 min
Date Uploaded:01-29-2024
Author Name:Ethan Steven

The 11 Plus examination in the United Kingdom is an important test for students aiming to secure a place in selective grammar schools. It's a challenging test that requires preparation, dedication, and support. As a parent, you play a key role in guiding your child through this journey. In this article, we'll explore ten ways parents can support their child's preparation for the 11 Plus exam. From creating a conducive study environment to celebrating achievements, we'll provide actionable strategies to empower your child's success.

1. Create a supportive environment.

Before your child can excel in the 11 Plus exam, they need a supportive home environment. This means creating a space where they can concentrate, study comfortably, and feel encouraged.

Creating a Study-Friendly Space

Ensure your child has a quiet and organised area for studying. Reduce distractions, provide good lighting, and keep study materials easily accessible. A well-structured study environment lays the foundation for effective learning.

2. Help with time management.

One of the essential skills your child needs for success is time management. Teach them how to prioritise tasks, set achievable goals, and allocate time wisely for studying and breaks. You can introduce them to techniques like the Pomodoro Technique, which involves short, focused work sessions followed by short breaks.

How Parents Can Assist

As a parent, you can help your child create a study schedule. Work together to establish a routine that accommodates their school workload, extracurricular activities, and 11 Plus preparation. Be flexible and adjust the schedule as needed to ensure it aligns with their needs and progress.

3. Provide quality study materials.

Having the right study materials is crucial for effective preparation. Research and invest in quality 11 Plus practice papers, textbooks, and online resources. These materials will serve as your child's tools for success.

How Parents Can Help

Explore the market for study materials and select those that align with your child's needs and learning style. Additionally, ensure that your child has access to a computer or tablet with a reliable internet connection for online resources.

4. Encourage healthy study habits.

Studying for the 11 Plus is a marathon, not a sprint. Encourage your child to establish a study routine that includes regular breaks. Short, frequent study sessions are more effective than long, exhausting ones.

Strategies for parents

Support your child in sticking to their study routine. Remind them to take breaks, stretch, and stay hydrated. Promote physical activity as a means of stress relief and relaxation. Finding a balance between study and leisure is crucial for their overall well-being.

5. Maintain open communication.

Effective communication is essential for a supportive relationship during 11+ preparation. Your child may face challenges or have questions along the way, and they should feel comfortable discussing them with you.

How Parents Can Foster Open Discussions

Create an open and non-judgmental atmosphere at home. Listen actively when your child talks about their concerns or successes. Offer guidance, provide assurance, and let them know you're there to support them in any way you can.

6. Motivation and Goal Setting

Goal-setting is a powerful motivator. Help your child set clear and achievable goals for their 11+ preparation. These goals will give them direction and a sense of purpose.

Techniques for Parents to Inspire and Encourage

Celebrate your child's milestones, regardless of how small they may seem. Offer words of encouragement and praise for their efforts. Assist them in breaking down their long-term goals into manageable steps, making the journey less overwhelming.

7. Teach test-taking strategies.

In addition to subject knowledge, your child needs to excel in test-taking skills. These skills include time management, understanding questions, and effective strategies for answering them.

How Parents Can Help

Provide your child with timed practice tests to simulate exam conditions. Review their performance together, focusing on areas that need improvement. Encourage them to practice strategies like the process of elimination for multiple-choice questions.

8. Handling Stress and Anxiety

Stress and anxiety are common companions on the journey to the 11 Plus exam. Your child may worry about the outcome, the pressure, and the expectations.

Ways Parents Can Support

Listen to your child's concerns and offer reassurance. Teach them relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or mindfulness exercises to manage stress effectively. Promote a healthy work-life balance to reduce the impact of stress on their well-being.

9. Utilise mock exams and practice.

Mock exams are valuable for familiarising your child with the exam format and timing. They also help build confidence and identify areas for improvement.

How Parents Can Facilitate Mock Exams

Schedule regular mock exams at home using official practice papers. Time these mock exams to simulate real exam conditions. Review the results together and create strategies for improvement based on their performance.

10. Celebrate small achievements.

Every small step your child takes on this journey is significant. Celebrate their achievements along the way, whether it's mastering a challenging topic or showing dedication to their studies.

Ideas for celebrations

Plan small rewards or treats for your child when they reach certain milestones in their preparation. Recognise their hard work and dedication, reinforcing their motivation and determination.

CONCLUSION

The path to 11 Plus success may be challenging, but with the unwavering support of parents, it can become a rewarding and empowering experience for your child. By creating a nurturing environment, fostering healthy study habits, and offering emotional support, parents can indeed be the wind beneath their child's 11 Plus wings, guiding them towards new heights of academic achievement. Remember that your involvement extends beyond academic success; it's about nurturing confidence, resilience, and a lifelong love for learning, qualities that will serve your child well throughout their educational journey.

I hope you find this helpful! For more information and satisfaction about tutorselevenplus! Please visit our reviews page and see what parents and students say about us! Thanks

Share Your Thoughts

Neststayhome
6 months ago
This insightful blog offers practical guidance for parents seeking to support their child's preparation for the 11 Plus exam. The clear and informative tips provided empower parents to effectively navigate the complexities of the exam process, fostering confidence and success for their children. Thank you for sharing such valuable resources!

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