đ The Best Way to Wind Down After SATs

The SATs are done â you made it! Whether you're a parent, carer, or teacher, we know how much effort, emotion, and organisation this week demands. So first of all: take a deep breath, and give yourself and your child a high-five. Theyâve just tackled a big challenge, and that deserves recognition.
Now, as the pressure lifts, itâs the perfect time to shift gears and help your child wind down, reset, and feel proud of what theyâve achieved.
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1. Let Them Decompress
After a high-stress week, donât be surprised if your childâs emotions are a little all over the place. Meltdowns, tiredness, mood swings â totally normal. Theyâve held it together under pressure, and now that itâs over, the release can hit hard.
Let them rest. Give them space. Donât rush back into routines or next challenges. Just be, together.
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2. Create a Reward Ritual
Celebration doesnât need to mean sugar highs or expensive outings (unless thatâs your thing!). Small, thoughtful rituals can help mark the moment.
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A mindful walk and chat
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A movie night with their favourite snacks
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Extra play time with no âclock watchingâ
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A calming Stix activity together to ease the nervous system
Even screen time can be a healthy part of winding down, especially if itâs framed as a reward after focused effort. A little balance goes a long way.
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3. Reflect Together
When the time feels right, invite your child to reflect on the week. Not about test scores but about effort, courage, and growth.
Try asking:
đ§ âWhat felt tricky, and how did you handle it?â
đȘ âWhat are you most proud of?â
đŹ âWhat did you learn about yourself this week?â
These questions build emotional awareness and help them see success beyond numbers.
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4. Keep Mental Health Routines Going
SATs might be over, but mental wellbeing is a year-round journey. Donât ditch those mindfulness moments, calming bedtime routines, or deep-breath reminders just because the tests are done.
These tools are just as important, if not more, during transitions and summer changes,  helping them prepare for the next school chapter.
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đ Celebrate with Calm
SATs are a moment, not the whole story. So take this chance to celebrate your childâs hard work â not with pressure, but with peace. A calming, confidence-boosting activity can help them feel seen, grounded, and proud of what theyâve just done.
Looking for inspiration? Our Stix Remotes are packed with short, interactive mindfulness activities designed to support emotional regulation and self-esteem â perfect for winding down after a big week.
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