With the exam season fast approaching, stressful times and sleepless nights are inevitable for parents and pupils throughout Hertfordshire, as the pressure of the looming tests takes its toll.

During the summer of 2001, eight per cent of all calls received by national charity Parentline Plus related to examination stress.

This year, the charity. which offers families practical help and information through a range of services including a free confidential helpline, a user friendly website and regular regional workshops, expects to see a huge surge in the number of these calls, as the exam period edges closer.

Call centre manager for the charity Ms Sarah Hillier said: "Children may feel under pressure from people at school and home when it comes to exams.

"The prospect of being tested can be overwhelming, especially if the student feels they haven't done enough revising.

"Parents may watch their children struggling and be desperate to help but consider themselves powerless to do so."

Parentline Plus have issued a set of top tips to assist parents in dealing with the stress and tension, during this period.

Tips include:

There are very few things in life in which you only get one chance and exams aren't one of them. Reassure children that if they do flunk this time, they can always re-sit.

Arrange their and your schedules around revision. Be lenient about chores and untidiness, give them a break and understand lost tempers and moodiness.

Its never too late to study, revise or ask for help

You might not understand the details of their work, but you can help them plan it

Bribes or presents conditional on getting high grades aren't the best way to help young people. It's far better to encourage them to work for their own to work for their own satisfaction and schedule small and frequent rewards for effort.

Parents and carers requiring further information and advice can call Parentline Plus's confidential free helpline on 0808 800 2222, or visit the website www.- parentlineplus.org.uk .