A new academic year brings not only an opportunity for pupils to acquire knowledge but also a chance to inspire the joy of learning and encourage creativity in every child. To foster this, teachers and parents should offer care and understanding instead of burdening children with the pressure of achievements.

Providing an educational environment with the philosophy of "less expectation, more effort" allows children to develop comprehensively and be happy. In the photo: Pupils from the Trung Nu Vuong Junior High School based in Hai Chau District, enjoy recreational and outdoor activities at the My Khe Beach. Photo: T.Y.

Avoid adding pressure to children

Recently, the Da Nang Psychiatric Hospital admitted a 10-year-old child diagnosed with a learning disorder. The child struggled with grasping knowledge and performing basic learning skills.

After the doctors diagnosed him with a learning disorder, his mom reflected on the causes and acknowledged that she had placed too many expectations and pressure on her child. Since the age of four, after attending preschool during the week, he had to follow a rigorous weekend schedule filled with language classes, music, chess, and swimming lessons. This tight schedule led to exhaustion and lack of focus.

After consulting with doctors, the mom realised that her excessive expectations had contributed to her child’s stress. She has since adjusted his learning schedule. While it hasn’t been easy, she believes that reducing the academic load and achievement pressure will allow her child to thrive in a more supportive learning environment.

Since the beginning of this year, the Da Nang Psychiatric Hospital has treated many children with learning disorders, often caused by the overwhelming expectations parents place on their children's achievements.

At the August seminar on "Specific Learning Disorders in Children", Dr. Do Tuyet Nhi from the Department of Child Psychiatry at the Da Nang Psychiatric Hospital stressed the importance of recognising learning disorders early to implement timely interventions.

According to Dr. Nhi, children with learning disorders often show signs of fatigue, boredom, poor concentration, irritability, and defiance, which leads to a decline in academic performance. Many parents, driven by a desire for their children to excel, unintentionally add pressure. In addition to medication, it is vital to create a positive learning environment where children feel encouraged rather than pressured to perform.

Dr. Nhi emphasised that parenting should not only focus on academic achievements but also on helping children feel confident, happy, and healthy. Less expectation, more effort, alongside deep understanding and empathy from parents, is the key to enabling children to grow fully and happily throughout their educational journey.

Making every school day a joyful day

Parents often feel anxious when their children are overloaded with homework and extracurricular classes, but few dare to break out of the cycle of achievement.

According to Ms. Nguyen Thi Tra, Director of Happy House Coaching and Values Education Centre, Son Tra District, this is because parents place too many expectations on their children. Additionally, the social media trend of sharing children’s achievements increases pressure on parents to ensure their child matches others.

Ms. Tra pointed out that excessive expectations from teachers and parents lead to an overwhelming number of lessons and time spent in "cram schools".

“Overloading children with knowledge is not the best way to help them grow. Children need time to rest, play, and explore the world around them. These activities not only develop social skills but also allow their brains to relax and recharge” she said.

As the new school year begins, many schools aim to provide a healthy educational environment where children can experience the joy of learning every day. This slogan has become a central message in education in recent years.

According to Ms. Le Thi Bich Thuan, Director of the municipal Department of Education and Training, schools in Da Nang have adopted active teaching methods, encouraging students to participate in extracurricular activities and educational games that promote social skills, creative thinking, and problem-solving. This makes learning more engaging and helps build confidence and effective communication skills in children.

Ms. Thuan also stressed the importance of educating parents on how to create a supportive environment for their children's development. Parents should recognise that family support and encouragement are crucial, and sometimes, easing academic pressure can lead to better learning outcomes. “Parents should be companions on their child’s educational journey, not the ones burdening them with expectations. Join your children in playing, learning, and exploring in an environment free from the constraints of achievement”, she highlighted.

In conclusion, with cooperation between schools, families, and communities, and a positive and joyful learning spirit, children can grow and develop happily throughout their education. More than anything, a new academic year is not just an opportunity for students to acquire knowledge but also a time to ignite the joy of learning and encourage creativity in every child.

Less expectation, more effort, along with deep understanding and empathy from parents, is key to helping children develop fully and happily throughout their learning journey.

Reporting by TIEU YEN - Translating by TRUC VY