Whether it’s GCSEs, A Levels, university finals or other major tests, it can be a trying time to be a parent. While you can help with drawing up timetables and encouraging your offspring to get to work (or in some cases, to stop and get some rest), it’s ultimately all down to them.
Since this is the case, why not focus on something useful that doesn’t make them feel pressured or anxious? A great way of supporting your children during this stressful period is to make sure that there are plenty of healthy, brain-boosting snacks on offer, so that they don’t fill up on crisps and chocolate. If you’re stuck for ideas, here are some of our favourites.
Crudites and hummus
The great thing about crudites and hummus is that it can be as simple or elaborate as you want it to be. Go all-out with homemade hummus, or take the convenient route and pick up a pot while doing the grocery shopping. Serve with nice crunchy vegetables like celery or carrot sticks for a filling mixture of protein, vitamins and good fats.
Roasted chickpeas
If you’re not so keen on hummus, you could also consider roasting chickpeas. This may sound fancy, but all you need to do is rinse off a can of them, then roast at 180-200C for 45 minutes to an hour. To make them extra tasty, roll them in a mixture of your favourite spices and seasonings as soon as they come out of the oven.
Cinnamon with a little sugar is a good choice for those with a sweet tooth. If you prefer things savoury, you could try smoked paprika and cumin. Why not experiment and come up with your own personal blend?
Dried fruit
Whether on its own or mixed with some nuts, dried fruit is a classic healthy snack for a good reason. It’s the perfect way to satisfy a sugar craving without the subsequent high and crash. That said, dried fruits are relatively high in sugar (although they’re still better than sweets and chocolate), so enjoy in moderation.
Avocado toast
Avocado toast has been popular in the US for a while, and it’s now starting to catch on over here. It’s very simple: just mash a few slices of avocado onto wholemeal toast, then drizzle on a little olive oil, and season with salt, pepper and lemon juice. This is particularly good for revision, as avocados contain the fatty acids that help keep brain functions on top form.
Hopefully you now have some tasty plans for keeping your revising children well-fed and healthy throughout their exams. Make sure to serve all the suggestions above with plenty of water, as good hydration is the final piece in the nutritional puzzle when it comes to exam success.
© Axonn 2015