Selda Altun, 15, London
Children are naturally rebellious, so the more parents try to push them into doing something, the more they will refuse.
| Parents need to show a lot of interest in their children’s education, but not be pushy as this makes learning a chore. |
Annabel McLeod, 14, London
It is important for children to discover the pace at which they work best and the study methods that allow them to reach their full potential. Parents should create a balance, offering support and guidance where necessary but enough freedom for children to work for themselves towards their own goals.
Michael Williams, 11, Birmingham
I don't think that children should be pushed academically, as it's their choice whether they want to succeed or not. My parents don't push me, but I know that I want to succeed and to get a good job.
Lizzie Kenyon, 17, London
Children need a push in the right direction to ensure that they succeed academically, but pushing young children can result in more harm than good. It is wrong to put pressure on seven-year-olds doing their SATS because at a young age a child cannot face disappointment.
Jodie Duke, 9, Plymouth
My mum says "You've got to do well in your exams, otherwise you won't get a good job when you're older", and I think she's right. My mum's pressure helps me to work a little harder.
Kimberly Mayo, 17, London
Parents need to show a lot of interest in their children's education as it shows they care, but not be pushy as this makes learning a chore, and children might end up feeling resentful if they study only to keep their parents happy.
About answer back
answer back is an occasional column by Children's Express members, published in the Parents pages of The Times.
