How to Support Your Child’s Learning Journey
By Sridevi Srinivasan
Can you use the same amount of water to grow different plants? Absolutely not. Some plants thrive in abundant water, while others need only a little. Overwatering can rot the roots, and neglect can cause the plant to wither. The key to nurturing a healthy plant lies in understanding its needs, enriching the soil with proper nutrients, and providing just the right amount of water.
Why are we talking about watering plants? Because parenting, in many ways, is quite similar.
We all agree that children need love and care. But how much love and how much guidance is necessary? Striking the right balance is the real challenge.
All parents care for their children, but their approach differs. Some parents are overly protective, believing their life’s sole purpose is to cater to their child’s every need. Others take the opposite route, expecting their children to fend for themselves. And then, there are parents who provide love and freedom while stepping in to guide their children when necessary.
Having worked with children for many years, I’ve observed distinct patterns in their behavior based on their parents’ level of involvement.
Parenting Styles and Their Impact on Children
- The Over-Involved Parent
“My child must be perfect at everything—academics, sports, arts, and extracurriculars. They must always be the best.”
🔹 Effect on Children
- Become overly dependent on their parents.
- Fear thinking outside the box and struggle with creativity.
- Constantly seek approval and hesitate to express their thoughts.
- Exhibit different personalities—obedient at home but rebellious outside.
- Parents often refuse to believe reports from teachers about their child’s behavior.
2. The High-Pressure Parent
“My child must excel, but I expect them to figure everything out on their own.”
🔹 Effect on Children
- Develop anxiety and feel pressured to meet unrealistic expectations.
- Put on a facade at home, acting differently outside.
- Seek attention from friends, teachers, and peers, sometimes in unhealthy ways.
- If they don’t receive attention, they withdraw, leading to low self-esteem.
3. The Neglectful Parent
“Children should grow up on their own—I don’t interfere much.”
🔹 Effect on Children
- Lack guidance in crucial areas of life.
- Struggle with discipline and direction.
- May grow up feeling emotionally distant or chaotic in their behavior.
- Heavily depend on teachers, mentors, or other adults for guidance.
Finding the Right Balance
So, how much love and care should parents provide?
✔ Understand your child – If they struggle with independence, start by giving them small responsibilities. Praise their efforts to build self-confidence.
✔ Avoid over-pampering – If your child is overly dependent, gradually encourage independence. Let them take responsibility for their words and actions.
✔ Allow mistakes – Perfection isn’t the goal. Let your child explore, make mistakes, and learn from them.
✔ Create a healthy environment – While discipline is important, so is giving children the space to grow, think, and express themselves freely.
Many parents believe they are doing the best for their children by making everything perfect—keeping their surroundings spotless, ensuring homework is done flawlessly, and enrolling them in countless activities. However, true learning happens when children are given the freedom to experience life on their own terms, with their parents providing gentle guidance along the way.
The beginning analogy made me hooked with the entire article. The content of the blog is way more important to me, as I will enter the stage very soon.