Parents, please don’t let grades hinder your child’s dreams!

In an education system often viewed through the lens of grades, the pressure to achieve high academic results has become a significant issue for many students and families. However, an excessive focus on grades can severely impact children’s mental health and well-being. This article explores why parents should focus on uncovering their child’s unique strengths rather than merely their grades.

The pressure of grades on students

For many students, grades are more than just numbers on a report; they symbolize recognition, validation, and sometimes even self-worth. However, this perspective can lead to severe consequences. The pressure to achieve high grades often results in stress, anxiety, and in extreme cases, emotional burnout.

Comparing students' grades unintentionally creates pressure on children.

In reality, many students sacrifice sleep, personal interests, and social time to achieve high marks in tests. Such long-term pressure can significantly harm children’s mental and physical health.

Professor Lê Anh Vinh, during a parent seminar at Victoria School, shared: “Many parents feel dissatisfied when their child scores 8 or 9 because others in the class scored 10. Yet, they are elated when their child scores 6 or 7 while others only manage a 5.” This perspective highlights how comparative attitudes, rather than an appreciation for a child’s individual development, inadvertently increase pressure on students.

Grades don’t reflect everything

In reality, grades are not the sole measure of intelligence, ability, or future success. History has recorded numerous examples of extraordinary success despite modest academic achievements. Steve Jobs, Albert Einstein, and even renowned entrepreneurs in Vietnam experienced periods of average academic performance.

This doesn’t imply that education isn’t essential. Learning remains the foundation for children to develop knowledge and skills. However, grades represent only a small fragment of a child’s overall capabilities. More important is how children apply their knowledge in real life and develop soft skills such as communication, creativity, and problem-solving.

Parents need to accompany and listen to their children more.

Thay vì tập trung vào việc con đạt được điểm cao trong mọi môn học, hãy quan sát và tìm hiểu xem con thực sự yêu thích điều gì. Chẳng hạn, một đứa trẻ có thể không giỏi môn văn nhưng lại rất sáng tạo khi viết truyện hoặc thiết kế.

Creating opportunities for children to thrive

To help children reach their potential, parents must create a supportive environment and assist them in their learning journey. Encourage them to explore various fields to discover their true passions. Enrolling in extracurricular courses, joining clubs, or participating in social activities are excellent ways for children to develop skills and explore themselves.

Additionally, listening and talking to your child is crucial. Ask them about their feelings, thoughts, and aspirations. When children feel understood and supported, they become more confident in showcasing their personal strengths.

The corporate experience programme at Victoria School helps students

explore various aspects and interests for their future careers.

At Victoria School, educational programs are designed to focus not only on academic knowledge but also on encouraging students to develop well-rounded skills. Creative projects, extracurricular activities, and teacher support help students feel engaged and discover their strengths.

Grades may be important, but they are not everything. Parents who accompany, understand, and encourage their children to grow according to their abilities will help them confidently step into the future. Let each child shine in their own way, as success stems not only from numbers but also from passion and unwavering effort.

Nhung Nguyễn