11 Plus Tips for Total Wellbeing and Focus
Are you already thinking about your child’s secondary school place and the hurdle of the 11+ exam?
All 3 of my children followed the 11+ route. They each had very different experiences. A tailored approach was needed as they all had strengths and weaknesses in different areas.
Embarking on the journey towards the 11+ exam can be a pivotal moment in your child’s education, especially if you’re aiming for a grammar school placement.
Prepping for this test is about preparing your child holistically – mentally and practically.
In this article, I’ll share key tips to not only boost your child’s confidence for the exam but also ensure their happiness and wellbeing are nurtured throughout this challenging period.
Let’s dive into how you can support your child.
What Does The 11 Plus Test Entail?
The 11 Plus exam is a unique challenge that varies from one region to another, tailored to measure the academic capabilities and potential your child has honed during their primary school years.
It was designed to identify those children that would thrive in a highly academic environment: grammar school.
The format of the test typically includes two papers, each designed to probe different areas of your child’s knowledge through standard and multiple-choice questions.
Your child might tackle multiple-choice questions on one paper and provide written responses on the other.
Here’s what they can expect to face:
- Non-verbal reasoning: Puzzles that assess logical thinking without the use of words.
- Verbal reasoning: Questions that evaluate understanding and reasoning using words.
- English: An assessment of their reading, writing, and comprehension skills.
- Mathematics: Challenges that include problems up to the level of times tables.
To get a clearer picture of what the test involves in your area, the best first step is to consult with your child’s school.
They can offer personalized advice and details specific to the 11 Plus in your locality.
TAKE THE QUIZ!
Getting Started: My Top Ten 11+ Tips
Starting your child’s 11+ prep early (but not too early), around Year 5, is wise.
By then, they should have a strong foundation in their their basic English and Maths, and be fairly fluent in their reading.
With a year to go, a well-planned prep can really make a difference.
Here are my top ten tips to help your child do well and stay happy:
- Read A Lot: Reading is key. It helps with vocabulary needed for the verbal reasoning and English sections. Explore different kinds of books and articles. Play word games and use apps to learn new words. Try to make it fun above all!
- Set a Study Schedule: Help your child understand the 11+ test and plan their study time. Use tools like mind maps and keep study sessions short and focused. Balance study time with breaks and fun.
- Focus on Key Subjects: Pay extra attention to Maths, English, verbal and non-verbal reasoning. Also, activities that develop thinking and problem-solving skills are helpful.
- Practise Regularly: Get to know the test format and practise with past papers. Timed mock tests are great for getting used to the exam setting.
- Keep Life Balanced: It’s important to mix study with other activities. This keeps your child from getting too stressed and helps them grow well-rounded.
- Think About Tutoring: A tutor can offer extra help and focus on tough areas. They can also make studying less stressful and more fun.
- Avoid Too Much Pressure: Keep expectations realistic and avoid stressing your child too much. Use positive words to keep their confidence up.
- Health and Self-Care: Make sure your child gets enough sleep, exercises, and eats well. These things keep them sharp and calm.
- Have Fun Too: Make sure there’s time for fun. Play educational games, go out, or do whatever your child enjoys. This helps them relax and stay fresh.
- Stay Positive and Supportive: Celebrate their hard work and the small wins. Remind your child that trying hard and learning is what really matters. This builds their confidence and keeps stress low.
The Day Before
The day before the test, try to keep everything as normal as possible.
Avoid making the upcoming exam feel like a huge event that could stress your child.
Instead, encourage them to engage in some light reading for pleasure or a fun activity which can help them relax.
Most importantly, ensure they get a good night’s sleep. This routine will help them approach the test day feeling refreshed and calm.
On the Exam Day
When the day arrives, your child will be well-prepared, familiar with the exam format, and practiced in the types of questions they’ll encounter.
Your support throughout this process has been crucial. Start the day with a nourishing breakfast and make sure they stay hydrated.
As they enter the exam room, the formal testing conditions will take over.
After the exam, be ready for an emotional day, regardless of the results. Show your child support and sensitivity, affirming how proud you are of their efforts.
Remember, the ultimate goal is to find a school where your child can thrive and reach their fullest potential. Whatever the outcome, it’s about finding the right fit for them.
Related Articles
How to Support Your Child If They Have “Failed” the Eleven Plus
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Hayley Vaughan-Smith is a Person-Centred Counsellor accredited by the National Counselling & Psychotherapy Society. She is the founder and counsellor at The Ridge Practice in Buckinghamshire, and counsellor at Everlief Child Psychology.
Hayley has a special interest in bereavement counselling and worked as a bereavement volunteer with Cruse Bereavement Care for four years.
Hayley is mum to 3 grown up girls, and gardening and walking in nature is her own personal therapy. Hayley believes being in nature, whatever the weather, is incredibly beneficial for mental health well-being.
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