Is anxiety normal?
Yes some anxiety is very normal, like adults, every child can experience worry or fears and is is a normal part of life, and a normal part of their development. Babies and toddlers might fear sudden loud noises, heights, separation and strangers. Pre-school age children might have fear of being on their own or of the dark, noises at night, masks, monsters and ghosts. Between the ages 6 and 12 many have fears and concerns over storms and natural disasters, being home alone, scary news or tv shows, burglars, injury, serious illness or death (particularly if there has been a serious illness or death in the family). Fear of failure and rejection.
We all have different levels of stress we can cope with and some people are just naturally more anxious than others,. Some are quicker to get stressed or worried but it starts being a problem when the anxiety takes over a situation.
How common is test anxiety?
Studies have shown that between 25% and 40% of children suffer with some level of anxiety and this can greatly affect their results.
Why are some children affected more than others?
There could be many reasons, some people are more likely to be anxious because it runs in the family, or it could be learnt through being around others that are anxious or by experiencing scary situations. Over-protective parents or siblings can increase a child’s anxiety. Personality type and temperament can also be a factor – some children are simply born more worried or ‘nervous’ than others. Past results can also play a part, if they have experience of not doing well, the fear of not doing well/failing can have an impact.
Why is my child not anxious?
Some children are naturally more confident than others, some will not be overly anxious if they are fairly confident about the subject or if they think they will pass/get a mark they need. Some may not be anxious if the exam or test has little meaning to them or the consequences of passing (or not) are not important.
Why are some tests ok and some are a problem?
Just like some children get anxious and others don’t, it is how a child sees a particular test. Some people enjoy english but not maths, some enjoy maths but not reading….if you have a liking for a subject, you are less likely to be anxious. Other factors can include whether there is a simple right or wrong answer….For example, more children appear anxious around maths as maths is a subject that requires a “right” answer. It can easily be marked as right or wrong. Beliefs play a part, some children simply believe maths to be harder (whether in reality it is or not). In addition, other peoples beliefs play a part too, if a child hears a parent or sibling say, “I am rubbish at maths” or “Don’t ask me how to spell, I am useless at spellings, I used to hate spelling tests” they may try to avoid that subject.
Workshop FAQ
Who are the workshops for?
The workshop has been specifically designed for children that suffer with anxiety over tests. Children that do not achieve what they are capable of because of the affects of anxiety. This does not cover any academic material – simply ways of taking back control and learning to manage anxiety in a relaxed and fun environment.
Why should my child take part in the workshop?
Studies show that children with anxiety can go on to have significant difficulties through their teens and into adult.
Can we get private, one-to-one sessions?
Yes. If you prefer a one-to-one approach, Heidi offers private sessions to help beat exam nerves.
Why not just see a tutor?
A tutor can help with the academic side of exam preparation, which can greatly increase a child’s confidence and ability – but very few have the experience and skill needed to help children overcome test anxiety.