Exams like the 11+ and SATs can feel stressful for both children and parents. But with the right guidance at home, your child can feel confident, motivated, and ready to do their best. Preparation is not just about worksheets. It is about building routines, developing strong study habits, and creating a positive mindset.
This complete guide explains what parents need to know, how to build the right environment at home, and the best ways to support children emotionally and academically.
What Is the Difference Between the 11+ and SATs?
The 11+ exam is used for entry into selective grammar and independent schools. It usually includes maths, English, verbal reasoning, and non-verbal reasoning. These questions often go beyond the national curriculum and require extra logical thinking skills.
SATs, on the other hand, are taken in Year 2 and Year 6 to check progress in reading, writing, and maths based on the national curriculum.
While both exams test core skills, the 11+ includes additional reasoning and timed problem-solving. Starting preparation early helps children build confidence, reduce stress, and understand the exam style at a comfortable pace.
Related Reading: 11+ Exam Format Explained
How Can Parents Build the Right Mindset at Home?
A positive mindset is one of the most powerful tools for exam success. Children perform best when they feel supported, understood, and encouraged.
Try these simple strategies at home:
- Praise effort instead of perfection
- Talk openly about normal feelings like stress or nervousness
- Encourage small breaks, stretching, or breathing exercises
- Create a calm, comfortable study space
- Keep the environment organised and free from distractions
When children feel relaxed and valued, they become more confident learners.
What Study Habits Work Best for the 11+ and SATs?
Short, consistent practice works far better than long, tiring study sessions. Aim for 20–30 minutes a day, focusing on one clear goal at a time.
You can also turn everyday activities into learning moments:
- Practise mental maths while shopping
- Read signs, menus, or short articles together
- Ask simple “why” and “how” questions to build reasoning skills
These habits make learning feel natural, not forced. Over time, small steps lead to big improvements.
Which Academic Strategies Help Children Succeed?
For SATs:
- Strengthen mental maths
- Focus on reading comprehension
- Practise spelling and grammar
- Encourage reading for enjoyment to build vocabulary
For the 11+:
- Build strong maths and English foundations
- Practise verbal and non-verbal reasoning
- Use past papers regularly
- Introduce timed exercises to build stamina
- Consider mock exams when your child is ready
These strategies help children understand the exam style and answer questions with confidence.
How Can Parents Support Their Child Emotionally and Practically?
Academic skills matter, but emotional support matters even more. Watch for signs of stress such as irritability, lack of sleep, or loss of interest.
Help your child stay balanced by:
- Encouraging breaks and outdoor play
- Keeping a healthy sleep routine
- Offering nutritious meals and plenty of water
- Celebrating effort, not just results
A calm, positive environment helps children stay focused and motivated through the entire preparation period.
When Should You Work With Teachers or Tutors?
Stay connected with your child’s teachers to understand their progress and identify areas that need extra attention. Teachers can also guide you on suitable materials or topics to focus on.
If you choose a tutor, make sure they have experience with the 11+ or SATs and encourage independent learning, not dependency.
Primus Education, for example, offers structured programmes tailored to each child’s level and learning style.
Regular communication between home, school, and tutors helps keep everyone aligned.
What Resources Can Parents Use for the 11+ and SATs?
Here are reliable, effective tools to support your child at home:
- Websites: BBC Bitesize, Bond Online, CGP Online
- Apps: Atom Learning, Sats Companion
- Books: CGP, Bond, Collins
Choose resources that match your child’s ability. A few high-quality materials used consistently are more effective than switching between many different books.
How Should Families Handle Test Week?
The final week should be calm and light. Avoid last-minute cramming.
A simple preparation checklist:
- Confirm exam date, time, and location
- Pack essentials the night before (pencils, eraser, water)
- Keep mornings relaxed and positive
- Remind your child that this is only one part of their learning journey
A calm child thinks more clearly and performs better.
How Should Parents Approach Results?
Results are important, but they do not define your child. Celebrate their effort, growth, and the skills they developed during preparation. Talk about the challenges they faced and how they overcame them.
Encourage continued learning even after exams. Reading, creative activities, and practising skills they enjoy all help build confidence, curiosity, and resilience.
Why Is Parental Support So Important?
Your support gives your child confidence, motivation, and emotional security. It also teaches them long-term habits such as:
- Staying organised
- Thinking critically
- Sticking with goals
- Believing in their ability
Preparing for the 11+ and SATs is not just about scores. With patient, consistent support, you help your child succeed in exams and develop skills that will benefit them for life.
FAQ
- How can parents support their child through SATs?
Create a calm study routine with short, regular practice. Praise effort, maintain healthy habits, and keep stress low with breaks and good sleep. - How can I help my child prepare for the 11+?
Focus on maths, English, and reasoning. Use past papers, work on timed practice, and keep encouragement consistent to build confidence. - How do parents support their children in general?
By praising progress, staying organised, listening to concerns, and offering steady reassurance. Emotional support is just as important as academic help. - What study habits work best for 11+ and SATs?
Short daily sessions, small achievable goals, and using everyday activities to practise skills. This keeps learning natural and engaging.
