Exam Anxiety in SEND Students: Tips for Parents to Help and Support

Jan 293 min read

Exams can be a nerve-wracking experience for many students, but for those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), the pressure can feel especially overwhelming. SEND students may struggle with unique challenges, ranging from ADHD and dyslexia to anxiety disorders and sensory sensitivities, that make exams not just stressful, but sometimes even debilitating.

This blog aims to help parents and caregivers navigate these challenges through a practical Q&A format, providing actionable tips and insights to address exam anxiety. Understanding what exam anxiety is, how it affects SEND students, and how to support them is key to helping them not only perform better but also feel more confident and capable.

Q1: What Is Exam Anxiety?

Exam anxiety is an intense feeling of worry or fear about an upcoming test or assessment. It can manifest in several ways:

Physical symptoms: Rapid heartbeat, nausea, headaches, or sweating.
Emotional symptoms: A sense of dread, fear of failure, or helplessness.
Cognitive symptoms: Difficulty concentrating, racing thoughts, or a mental "blank" during the test.

For SEND students, who often face additional academic and social challenges, these symptoms can be heightened, creating a cycle of stress and underperformance.

Q2: Why Does Exam Anxiety Affect SEND Students More?

SEND students are particularly vulnerable to exam anxiety due to:

Learning Barriers: Dyslexia, dyspraxia, or ADHD can make reading, writing, or processing information during exams more difficult.
Time Constraints: Struggles with time management can make strict exam deadlines especially stressful.
Sensory Overload: The noise, lighting, or environment in an exam hall can overwhelm students with sensory sensitivities, such as those with autism.
Fear of Judgment: Many SEND students have experienced feelings of inadequacy, making them more anxious about failing or being compared to peers.

Q3: How Can Parents Help SEND Students Manage Exam Anxiety?

As a parent, you play a crucial role in easing exam anxiety and setting the tone for a calm and supportive environment. Here are practical tips tailored for parents:

1. Create a Calm and Predictable Routine

Establish a consistent daily schedule in the lead-up to exams, including set times for studying, relaxing, and sleeping.
Predictability helps reduce anxiety by giving your child a sense of control over their day.
Ensure they get adequate sleep, as rest is critical for focus and emotional regulation.

2. Break Study Sessions into Manageable Chunks

Help your child break their revision into small, focused sessions (20–30 minutes) with regular breaks in between.
Use visual aids like checklists, flashcards, or mind maps to make studying feel less overwhelming.
Avoid cramming, it can increase stress and reduce retention.

3. Teach Relaxation Techniques

Practice deep breathing exercises with your child to help them calm their mind during stressful moments.
Introduce mindfulness activities, such as guided meditation or yoga, to manage stress effectively.
Encourage physical activity, as it’s a natural way to reduce anxiety and release pent-up energy.

4. Foster Positive Thinking

Help your child reframe negative thoughts, such as “I’ll fail,” into positive affirmations like “I’m doing my best.”
Remind them that exams are just one part of their learning journey and do not define their worth.
Celebrate their efforts and progress, not just results.

5. Provide Practice Opportunities

Create a low-pressure environment for mock exams at home, simulating the real test setting to help them feel prepared.
Familiarity with the format, structure, and timing of exams can significantly reduce anxiety.

6. Communicate with the School

Work closely with your child’s SENCO (Special Educational Needs Coordinator) or teachers to ensure appropriate accommodations are in place.
Accommodations may include extra time, a quiet room, or the use of a scribe or reader.

7. Offer Emotional Support

Encourage open communication about their feelings. Let your child know it’s okay to feel nervous and that you’re there to support them.
Be patient and empathetic. Avoid pressuring them, as this can heighten their anxiety.