Year 6 SATs exams are an important milestone for many primary school students in the UK. These exams are designed to assess a student’s proficiency in core subjects such as Maths and English and are used as a benchmark for their secondary school education. However, for many students, the pressure of these exams can be overwhelming, leading to anxiety and stress.
In this blog, we will discuss some calming techniques that can help Year 6 students manage their exam anxiety and perform to the best of their ability.
1.Breathing exercises
One of the simplest and most effective ways to calm the mind and body is through deep breathing exercises. Encourage your child to sit comfortably and take deep breaths, counting to three as they inhale and exhale slowly. Repeat this exercise for a few minutes, focusing on their breath and letting go of any distracting thoughts.
2. Mindfulness techniques
Mindfulness is a technique that involves being present in the moment, without judgment or distraction. There are many different mindfulness techniques that can help students to calm their minds and reduce anxiety. For example, you could encourage your child to practice mindful breathing, where they focus on their breath and observe their thoughts without getting caught up in them.
3. Visualisation
Visualisation is a powerful tool that can help students to overcome their exam anxiety. Encourage your child to visualise themselves performing well on their SATs exams. Ask them to imagine themselves sitting in the exam room, feeling confident and in control. Visualising success can help to boost their confidence and reduce anxiety.
4. Exercise
Exercise is a great way to release tension and reduce stress. Encourage your child to take a break from studying and engage in physical activity, such as going for a walk or playing a game outside. Exercise can help to clear the mind and improve mood, making it easier to focus on studying.
5. Positive self-talk
Positive self-talk is an effective way to calm the mind and build confidence. Encourage your child to replace negative thoughts with positive affirmations. For example, instead of saying “I’m not good at Maths,” they could say “I’m getting better at Maths every day.”
Check out our YouTube channel for breathing exercises, mindfulness and visualisations to use during this week at home.
In conclusion, Year 6 SATs exams can be a stressful time for many students. However, there are many calming techniques that can help students to manage their anxiety and perform to the best of their ability. By practicing deep breathing, mindfulness, visualisation, exercise, and positive self-talk, students can feel more confident and in control, and approach their exams with a clear and focused mind.
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