How to support neurodivergent children through exam season, according to a psychologist

Many families are counting down to end of years exams right now, but for parents of children with ADHD, autism, or suspected neurodivergence, exam season can bring an extra layer of stress.

In the UK, around one in seven people are estimated to be neurodivergent, yet many children still face long waits for assessments or go through school without a formal diagnosis. According to Dr Laura Powling, Consultant Clinical Psychologist and CEO of Evolve Psychology, this can leave parents trying to support children whose learning needs may not be fully recognised in school.

While revision advice often focuses on long study sessions and silent concentration, Dr Powling says many neurodivergent children need a different approach to help them feel confident and capable during exams.

Why traditional revision methods may not work

Dr Powling explains that many neurodivergent children struggle because traditional revision techniques do not match the way their brains work.

“If a child doesn’t have a diagnosis, there is a risk that educational professionals assume difficulties must be behavioural or motivational, which can be tricky to overcome,” she says.

“Many neurodivergent children struggle because traditional teaching methods – long periods of focus, written revision and silent study – don’t match how they process information. Children whose brains work differently may need alternative ways to access their strengths.”

Many neurodivergent children struggle because traditional teaching methods - long periods of focus, written revision and silent study - don’t match how they process information.

Revision tips that can help neurodivergent learners

Instead of forcing revision to look the same for every child, Dr Powling encourages parents to experiment with approaches that feel more manageable.

Try shorter study sessions

Long revision blocks can quickly become overwhelming. Dr Powling recommends shorter bursts of focused study, around 20 to 30 minutes, followed by proper breaks.

Allow movement during learning

Some children focus better when they can move. Walking while reciting information, stretching or using a fidget toy may help concentration.

Use visual and audio tools

Mind maps, colour coding and diagrams can help information stick. Recording notes or encouraging children to explain topics aloud can also support memory and understanding.

Encourage them to teach someone else

Explaining a topic to a parent, sibling or friend can help children process and retain information more effectively.

Create a calmer revision environment

For children with sensory sensitivities, the environment itself can affect how well they study.

Dr Powling suggests creating a quiet, uncluttered workspace with predictable routines where possible. Softer lighting, background noise or headphones, plus easy access to snacks and water, may also help children feel more regulated during revision.

Speak to the school early

Even without a formal diagnosis, parents can still ask schools about support options.

Contacting the school’s SENCo (Special Educational Needs Coordinator) early may open conversations around possible adjustments, including:

• Smaller exam rooms
• Supervised rest breaks
• Alternative seating arrangements
• Extra pastoral support

Starting these discussions ahead of exams gives schools more time to explore what support may be available.

How parents can help on exam day

Keeping exam days predictable can help reduce anxiety for neurodivergent children.

Dr Powling recommends talking through the plan the night before, including timings, transport and meals, then repeating it again in the morning.

Sticking to familiar routines, including breakfast and clothing choices, can also help children feel calmer and more settled before heading into school.

If children feel overwhelmed during an exam, having a simple strategy prepared in advance may help. This could include taking slow breaths, pausing briefly or skipping a difficult question and returning to it later.

Protecting your child’s wellbeing during exams

Dr Powling says protecting mental health is one of the most important things parents can do during exam season.

Neurodivergent children can spend huge amounts of energy masking or trying to adapt to environments that do not feel natural to them, which can increase the risk of burnout.

Parents are encouraged to watch for signs such as exhaustion, emotional outbursts or negative self-talk, while prioritising sleep, hydration and downtime wherever possible.

Why exams are not the only measure of success

As results pressure builds, Dr Powling encourages families to shift conversations away from grades alone and focus more on effort, wellbeing and finding strategies that work for the child.

“Exams aren’t the only measure of success,” she says.

“The reality is that many neurodivergent adults thrive once they understand how their brains work. Creativity, problem-solving and unconventional thinking can become powerful strengths. If, as a parent or carer, you can help your child understand how they learn best, that is something that will serve them far beyond any test paper.”

Exams aren’t the only measure of success. The reality is that many neurodivergent adults thrive once they understand how their brains work.