Avoid Academic Pressure On Kids

Almost all parents want their children to be good at academics. I do not say it is wrong. In today's competitive world it is required to be the best. But many parents put intense pressure on their children to score well, no matter how hard it is. Parents are afraid of the future, especially because of today's economy. In addition, some parents desire to live their own unfulfilled dreams through the lives of their children.

Experts says that this type of intense pressure around school and perfomance can backfire, leading to social, emotional and physical stress.

Children suffer from sleep deprivation, eating disorders, excessive worrying,loss of interest, depression, anger, withdrawing from family and friends. 

This is not just a problem which the kids suffers in school. As they grow up the problems continue, they dislike or hate people involved in the process of their education, be it their parents or teachers, relatives or friends. They have a bad attitude towards life. Some of them become very rebelious, not willing to accept their mistakes. 

Teachers are also equally responsible in building up pressure. "Look at your elder sister so intelligent and look at you", "I am going to call your parents to school", another my favourite one "Your senior batch was so good" . I wonder if every senior batch is good and every junior batch has spoilt brats.

Most of my mom's students complain saying with grades, homework pressure they always have fear of failure and so less motivation to study, But I say Motivation for success should be fueled by love for what you are doing and not for any external pressures or fears. 

Do what you love and love what you do.

Do not compare your kids with others. Doing this is the recipe for causing stress to yourself and your kid. As a kid you never wanted your parents to keep an eye on you. Now that you have kids why pressurize them. These days it is very much easier for parents to access grades online resulting in more pressure and stress for the kid. Previously one had to just take the mark sheets home and get it signed. As a result  signature forgery was the art learnt by kids to avoid parents involvement.  

What parents can do:

Remember to identify your child's strengths,talents and interests. If she thinks maths is boring and loves to paint, that's okay.

Recognize that his or her strengths may be different to those of his or her siblings. Also give a chance to your child to relax. Kids develop at different rates. There are fast learners, slow learners and steady-as-you-go kids in every group, so comparing your child's performance can be completely unrealistic. What this means for you: Focus on your child's improvement and effort and use your child's results as the benchmark for his or her progress and development. "Your handwriting is better today than it was a few months ago."