Overemphasis on school and education might not be the best approach for every child

• While education is vital, it should not come at the expense of a child’s natural curiosity and joy for learning. The responsibility lies with both the educational system and parents to ensure that learning is a fulfilling and positive experience for every child.

“Teaching does not teach anything; ‘learning’ is the result of the practical activities of the learner!” — John Holt

Every time I see a three-year-old child entering school crying, I am reminded of Albert Einstein. Einstein himself disliked school, describing it as a military-like environment that stifled freedom of thought. He would not believe anything until he understood it, often leading teachers to label him as stupid and incompetent. Despite being expelled, Einstein went on to change the course of history, proving that he was right and the world was wrong. Consider Isaac Newton, who was so weak and small at birth that he could have fit into a mug. Despite early expectations that he might not survive, he grew up to make groundbreaking contributions to science. Newton’s own view of his work was humble; he compared it to a boy playing on the seashore, searching for something in a pile of oysters while knowing that a vast sea of truth lay before him.

These stories of great individuals illustrate how what is often seen as stubbornness or inadequacy can lead to extraordinary achievements through hard work, curiosity, and dedication. Your child has the potential to be as remarkable as Einstein, Edison, Newton, or any other great figure. The key difference is the belief that their parents have in their potential and their ability to face future challenges. The purpose of sharing these stories is to highlight that an overemphasis on school and education might not be the best approach for every child. Modern schools often fail to provide the environment needed for true learning and personal growth. Instead, they may impose restrictions that stifle creativity and enthusiasm, much like a rigid, outdated system that was never designed to meet the needs of today’s learners.

The traditional school system, rooted in historical practices from the Protestant Reformation, aimed to teach children without encouraging questioning. Despite various attempts at reform, the basic structure of the education system has remained largely unchanged, leading to a system that often suppresses a child’s natural curiosity and desire to learn. Studies have shown that children can become unhappy and disengaged in a rigid school environment. For example, a study involving wristwatches that monitored students’ happiness levels revealed that they were most unhappy and bored while at school. This is a reflection of how the current educational system often fails to foster genuine interest and enthusiasm in learning.

Parents in Pakistan, like elsewhere, may be overly focused on the traditional school system, often paying exorbitant fees in the belief that this will guarantee success for their children. However, it is essential to consider whether this approach truly supports the child’s well-being and development. Instead of placing undue pressure on children, fostering a nurturing and engaging learning environment at home may be more beneficial. In conclusion, while education is vital, it should not come at the expense of a child’s natural curiosity and joy for learning. The responsibility lies with both the educational system and parents to ensure that learning is a fulfilling and positive experience for every child.

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Published under International Cooperation with "Sindh Courier"