Mumsnet users share how they support their children during exam period with IKEA

[JustineBMumsnet]

We're going to close this discussion for now as the relevance has changed following recent news. We'll be starting a new discussion in partnership with IKEA soon. Anyone who has posted here already will still be entered into the prize draw, and we'll get back to you about when that will be.

At exam time, seeing your child apply themselves probably fills you with a sense of pride. But despite this exam periods can be a confusing time for all involved, and as a parent it can be difficult to know what you can do to support your child, and help them achieve all they’re capable of. With this in mind, IKEA would like to hear about the small ways you support your child through exam period.

Here’s what Marie Tenglund, Interior Design Leader at IKEA has to say: “Having somewhere for your child to study which feels right for them is really important. Whether they have their own dedicated desk or not, an effective workspace needs to start with the basics; a sturdy worksurface, a work lamp with directed light which will ensure your child’s eyes doesn’t strain and a comfortable chair with adjustable height that is ergonomic and gives your child the most comfortable seating position.

It’s hard to concentrate with lots on, so using pegboards and picture ledges will help to keep the work space clean and clear avoiding unnecessary time looking for lost homework or revision papers. If space is tight, a flexible workspace, maybe by the dining table or kitchen island, could be the right solution for you. A trolley or a movable drawer unit, organised with books and stationery completes any temporary workspace.

Another way to be smart with your kids’ workspace at home is to ‘Grow with your study-buddy’. Use the PÅHL child’s desk which adjusts to different heights, from starting school to studying for your GCSE’s. A great sustainable way to prolong the lifespan of a product which is great for the environment and saves money in the long run.”

Have you made sure your child has a dedicated space with a desk and a proper lamp to revise in peace, quiet and efficiency? Maybe you’re focused on ensuring they’re eating ‘brain food’ or keeping their energy levels up? Perhaps you encourage them to get outside for some fresh air or exercise each day to clear their minds?

Whatever you do to support your children through their exam period, share it on the thread below and you’ll be entered into a prize draw where one MNer will win a £300 IKEA gift voucher.

Thanks and good luck!

MNHQ

Insight Terms and Conditions apply

Well seeing as they've been cancelled ....

I feel so bad for all the students that now have uncertainly about the exams and when they will take place - it must be heartbreaking and stressful after all their preparation. My heart goes out to all of them. I hope they can keep smiling and know that they are not the only ones in such a difficult position.

I don't have exam aged children. Thinking of all the parents that do currently and the exam cancellations

Being healthy and rested is as important as revising. Lights out st a certain time, screens off a decent period before that.

Also making your own flash cards are great, and doing question and answer rounds with the parent holding the flash cards can be really useful!

I used to do seasonal work during may june and into july. Now my children are into ks4, i have quit that job and do other work instead. And take the hit on income.
They need me around at that time, regardless of how great their set-up is.

For me (in any other year) A desk with drawers - to put the paperwork and books away when studying has finished for the day, a comfy chair which supports the back, and a desk lamp.
Time to study, and time outdoors unwinding.

Wondered how this thread was going now 🤣
When I was doing my O levels (yes, I'm that old) my DM said every time I went out to an exam that whatever happened she'd always love me.
Given what is happening now, there is a big lesson for all of us that exams are not everything. We can still learn and develop skills, whilst understanding what is really important.
I hope the Ikea family are looking after their staff.

I helped my DCs prepare for exams by giving them reminders to study, asking them how the study was going, giving them time for breaks and fun too.
''Twas all for naught, now exam results are based on 🤷‍♀️whatever.
After hearing the news, both DCs have given up on study and DD dyed her hair (given it now does not even need to be normal human colour for exams).

DD has dyed her hair too, InMySpareTime!

She did it in a spirit of 'Oh well, no one will see it', but they're all busy Skyping and Facetiming each other, and music lessons might be via video link, so...

Peace an quiet to work in and plenty of reassurance. Also a plentiful supply of food!

We agreed a timetable, a range of subjects to revise, which included mornings/ afternoon off every week. I invested in a desk and chair, and files for revision notes. I bought some flash cards with key words, finally downloaded an app for quick tests on the syllabus, this was last year - my thoughts go out to those who have worked so hard for their exams which will not happen.

A desk, chair, quiet time, timetable of subjects, and a good balance of study and 'down-time'. Internet off at 10 pm and meals and drink times and ensure that the brain is fed and body watered.

Hi all, we're going to close this discussion for now as the relevance has changed following recent news. We'll be starting a new discussion in partnership with IKEA soon. Anyone who has posted here already will still be entered into the prize draw, and we'll get back to you about when that will be.

thanks @JustineBMumsnet - In any other year.......... good luck with the prize draw.

@JustineBMumsnet I can see Ikea are sponsering another discussion, thanks

Make it fun.
My kids are not old enough yet but I am a math teacher/tutor and I used to hand out a healthy snack like a banana at the beginning of each revision lesson at the pupil’s home or school. Additionally, I bring a laptop with me and I show the group how to play fun revision games online as well. The first couple of revision lessons in September are used to set goals and are more of a icebreaker really. I also use a pen and notebook.
One of my lessons a week is solely dedicated to exam practice and technique. I tend to use a variety of revision techniques like flashcards, color coding, mind-maps, fun games, worksheets, highlighters etc depending on the ability and learning style of the pupil. We also take breaks for fresh air or a cup of water.

@JustineBMumsnet hello - have you contacted the Ikea voucher winner yet - I'm sure a lucky Mumsnetter would be thrilled (I've not posted on this tread) thanks

Optimal results require optimal health , therefore I focus good mental health by reducing stress and anxieties : early bed time , avoiding conflict , balanced diet and exercise . Have a consistent routine studying a different subject each day with positive reinforcement such as treats has worked very well . Don’t forget to take breaks aswell !

@JustineBMumsnet

We're going to close this discussion for now as the relevance has changed following recent news. We'll be starting a new discussion in partnership with IKEA soon. Anyone who has posted here already will still be entered into the prize draw, and we'll get back to you about when that will be.

any update please - I am sure a lucky mumsnetter would love a Ikea voucher at this time - so many nice things to buy for the home

@JustineBMumsnet.

@JustineBMumsnet

We're going to close this discussion for now as the relevance has changed following recent news. We'll be starting a new discussion in partnership with IKEA soon. Anyone who has posted here already will still be entered into the prize draw, and we'll get back to you about when that will be.

any update please - I am sure a lucky mumsnetter would love a Ikea voucher at this time - so many nice things to buy for the home

@JustineBMumsnet.

Being really Strict with screen time during revision. I know how easily distracted I am
On my phone so it will be much worse for a teen.

Thanks all for your comments on this thread. All posters were included within the prize draw on the updated (and relevant to the time!) IKEA thread here.