We’ve all been there: you walk past your child’s room, and instead of studying, they’re watching YouTube, texting, or staring into space. You feel the tension rise and hear yourself ask (again), “Have you done your revision yet?”
Sound familiar?
Nagging is a natural instinct when we want the best for our children. But research shows that constant reminders can create resistance, damage communication, and make revision even harder. So, how do you support your child’s learning without becoming the “revision police”?
🎯 1. Build a Shared Plan, Not a Battle Ground
Children are more likely to commit to a plan they’ve helped create. Sit down together and map out a realistic revision schedule, taking into account their school timetable, hobbies, and downtime. Tools like revision planners like The Ultimate Revision Planner or to-do lists can be helpful.
Tip: Keep sessions short (25–45 mins max) and include breaks. According to the Pomodoro Technique, breaking tasks into focused bursts can improve concentration and reduce burnout.
🧠 2. Understand What’s Going on in Their Brain
During KS2 to GCSE years, your child’s brain is still developing – especially the parts linked to self-regulation and planning. According to the Education Endowment Foundation (EEF), students need support building routines and motivation.
Instead of demanding “just get it done,” try exploring why they find revision hard. Is it confidence? Distraction? Not knowing where to start?
When children feel understood, they’re more likely to engage positively with learning.
💬 3. Use Encouragement, Not Interrogation
Rather than asking, “Have you revised today?” try:
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“What topic did you find tricky today?”
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“Show me one thing you’re proud of from your session.”
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“What do you want help with this week?”
These shift the conversation from pressure to partnership. Dr Noel Janis-Norton, author of Calmer, Easier, Happier Parenting, calls this approach “descriptive praise”: focusing on what’s going well to build motivation.
📚 4. Make the Space Revision-Friendly
Is their study space cluttered? Do they have their phone next to them? Simple changes like removing distractions, having proper lighting, and keeping revision resources nearby can make a big difference.
Many parents find it helpful to have a shared space like the kitchen table for revision – it creates accountability without hovering.
Story: One Year 9 parent told us that after creating a 'revision corner' in the lounge with some snacks, Post-it notes, and access to past papers, her son began using it without prompting. “He just needed a space that felt like it was his.”
🤝 5. Get External Support If Needed
Sometimes, the best way to help your child is to looking for support when you need it. An experienced tutor can take on the role of motivator, mentor, and learning guide – allowing you to focus on being the parent, not the teacher.
Whether your child is preparing for 11+, aiming to boost confidence in maths, or needs structured GCSE revision, personalised online tutoring can help them progress faster – and with far less stress at home.
💬 Final Thoughts
Helping your child revise doesn’t have to mean daily battles. With the right structure, mindset, and support, they can take ownership of their learning – and you can enjoy a calmer household.
✉️ Need Help?
At School House Learning Centre, we specialise in online maths tutoring from KS2 to GCSE. Our sessions are personalised, friendly, and proven to help students progress 3x faster than traditional school support.
📩 Contact us now to book a free assessment and see how we can support your child’s journey.