With the Leaving Certificate results set to be released bright and early tomorrow morning, we decided to put together some useful advice for parents ahead of the big day. From knowing what to say and when to say it, Leaving Cert results day can be a minefield of emotion. Here are a few handy pointers to help you out. ________________________________________________ Prepare, prepare, prepare It is crucial to prepare for every eventuality tomorrow. Think carefully about how you will react to their news as while you will be hoping for good news, it’s crucial that the student feels supported no matter what happens. Talk it out Try and take a few minutes out with your son or daughter today and have a chat about their options. Reassure them that no matter what happens tomorrow, it’s not the end of the world. Remind them that there are so many options out there that these results are just a stepping stone. Check and double check In the heat and stress of the moment, it's very easy for the student to add up their points wrong. Once the initial shock of opening the envelope has passed, check and double check their points - you just never know. Get ready for Plan B Be prepared and have a Plan B ready to kick into place. There are many ways for people to achieve what they want to do, and though it might take an extra year or two to get there, know what can be done so you can pass the message on. A gentle reminder If your son or daughter is happy with their results, remind them that not everybody may be in the same boat and that they should be sensitive when talking about results with their friends. Don’t forget The CAO re-opens its application process in August and September to fill up college places that haven’t been taken so be sure to check out their ‘Available Places’ utility. Under pressure While the results may be out tomorrow, the offers won’t follow for another few days. Try not to stress the student in your family out too much with over-analysis of what may or may not be. Wait for that envelope to come through the door and then go from there. Regardless of what happens… Be sure to celebrate. Even if your son or daughter may not have got the points they were hoping for, they have still overcome a major milestone in their lives. This is the beginning of a new chapter for them and it should be marked.