Summer has arrived, bringing exam season along with it for families with teenagers. As studying and revision increasingly take place online, more screen time is inevitable. Balancing this extra screen time to ensure it is beneficial rather than distracting and disruptive to sleep can be challenging.
To address this issue, parents and children need to find a middle ground that alleviates pressure and anxiety. In 2026, The Family Chat campaign, in collaboration with Tesco Mobile, aims to facilitate open discussions within families on staying safe online.
Author and podcaster Giovanna Fletcher, a mother of three boys aged seven to 11, engages in conversations with parents and children to address online safety concerns. The focus of the latest Family Chat session revolves around managing the heightened screen time and stress associated with exam season.
Giovanna emphasizes the unique nature of revision for today’s generation, highlighting the benefits of screen time alongside potential drawbacks. The Jackson family, consisting of Ellie, Ian, and their four children, including 16-year-old Lilia and 14-year-old Evie, share their experiences with smartphones and managing screen time.
Lilia, preparing for her GCSEs, has learned to limit distractions by setting boundaries on her phone usage. She emphasizes the importance of prioritizing revision and minimizing interruptions from group chats. Additionally, she utilizes online resources to enhance her studying, such as creating personalized revision aids like flashcards from online quizzes.
While Ellie acknowledges concerns about screen time affecting sleep patterns, she recognizes the positive impact it can have on her children’s learning. Utilizing AI for academic assistance and accessing Tesco Mobile’s resources for exam support, the family aims to strike a balance between screen time and productivity.
Implementing strategies like creating a dedicated revision space and monitoring signs of fatigue or stress, Tesco Mobile’s Top Tips for Supporting Children Around Exam Season offer practical guidance for families. By fostering meaningful conversations and promoting healthy screen habits, parents can support their children effectively during exam season.
