Parental involvement and education are critical in shaping a child’s educational journey. When it comes to preventing ‘kiasuism’ and avoiding undue stress on children’s educational pursuits, parents wield significant power. Parents can promote a healthy approach to education by understanding the importance of balance and well-being.
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Developing realistic expectations for their children is an important aspect of parental education. Parents must recognise that each child has distinct abilities and interests, and success should be measured in terms of personal development and fulfilment rather than solely academic achievements. Parents can help their children develop a positive attitude towards education by creating a supportive environment that celebrates individual strengths and encourages a love of learning.
Parents can also encourage their children to participate in extracurricular activities outside of academics to promote a balanced lifestyle. Children can explore their interests, develop social skills and cultivate a well-rounded personality by participating in sports, the arts or community service. It promotes creativity, critical thinking and resilience, all of which are necessary for long-term success.
Parental education also includes teaching children time management and study skills. Parents can empower their children to handle academic responsibilities without feeling overwhelmed by instilling good study habits and organisational techniques. Setting realistic goals, breaking tasks into manageable chunks and encouraging regular breaks for relaxation and rejuvenation are all part of this. Such practices help to avoid burnout and maintain a healthy balance of academic pursuits and personal well-being.
Another important aspect of parental education is setting a good example. Children are more likely to emulate their parents’ positive attitudes towards education and personal development. Instead of focusing solely on grades or competition, parents can share their own learning experiences and emphasise the joy of acquiring knowledge. Parents can create an environment where children feel comfortable expressing their challenges and seeking help when needed by demonstrating a genuine interest in their child’s education and engaging in open and supportive conversations.
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Additionally, parental education entails instilling in children resilience and a growth mindset. Setbacks and failures can be taught to children as part of the learning process and should be viewed as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles. Parents can instil resilience in their children by emphasising the importance of effort, perseverance and learning from mistakes, allowing them to recover from setbacks and develop a positive attitude towards challenges.
Importantly, parental education raises parents’ awareness of the negative effects of excessive academic pressure on their children’s mental health. Parents can intervene early and provide the necessary support and guidance if they recognise the signs of stress and anxiety. This could include seeking professional assistance or working with educators to create a supportive network for the child.
Parental education is ultimately important because parents are the primary influencers in a child’s life. When parents have the knowledge and skills to prioritise their child’s overall well-being, they can encourage a healthy approach to education. Parents create an environment in which their children can thrive academically and emotionally by encouraging balance, celebrating individual strengths and cultivating resilience.
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In conclusion, parental education is critical in preventing kiasuism and ensuring children’s well-being throughout their educational journey. Parents can provide a nurturing environment that supports their children’s growth and development by setting realistic expectations, promoting balance, teaching effective study skills, leading by example, fostering resilience and being aware of mental health. Parents can empower their children to enjoy the process of learning, pursue their passions and achieve their full potential by valuing holistic education and embracing a healthy mindset.
