As summer approaches, families with teenagers are not only gearing up for day trips and vacations but also bracing themselves for the exam season. In today’s digital age, where research and revision are mostly done online, teenagers are spending more time in front of screens. Balancing this screen time to ensure it is productive and not disruptive to sleep can be a challenge for both parents and children.
To address this issue, throughout 2026, we are launching The Family Chat campaign in partnership with Tesco Mobile. This initiative aims to facilitate open discussions within families about staying safe online. Author and podcaster Giovanna Fletcher, a mother of three boys aged seven to 11, is engaging with parents and kids to discuss the challenges they encounter and how Tesco Mobile’s array of online resources can offer assistance.
The latest segment of The Family Chat focuses on the exam season and how to manage the increased screen time and stress associated with it. Giovanna emphasizes the evolving nature of revision for today’s generation, highlighting the benefits of screen time in aiding learning processes.
The Jackson family, comprising Ellie, Ian, and their four children – Lilia, Evie, Rafe, and Audrey – are no strangers to smartphones. While Evie used to feel pressured to respond to messages immediately, Lilia, who is preparing for her GCSEs, has learned to limit her screen time to avoid distractions. Lilia has adopted strategies like muting group chats while studying to maintain focus.
To enhance her revision process, Lilia leverages online quizzes to create personalized study aids like flashcards. Ellie, the mother, acknowledges the concerns associated with screen time but also recognizes its advantages, especially in aiding Lilia’s revision efforts.
Utilizing Tesco Mobile’s Top Tips for Supporting Children Around Exam Season, the Jackson family plans to implement strategies such as establishing a dedicated revision workspace using a laptop instead of a phone. These tips also help in identifying signs of fatigue or stress to watch out for during the exam period.
Engaging in conversations about effective revision practices and the importance of sleep in supporting memory and learning is crucial for parents seeking to provide meaningful support to their children during exams. By striking a balance and exploring positive uses of screen time, families can navigate the challenges of exam season more effectively.