As a parent, you want to make sure that your child has all the resources they need to succeed. You want them to reach their full potential, but how do you know when you’re encouraging a child versus when you’re pushing them too hard? 

Children are malleable, and they spend their early years constantly learning. While this feature of childhood development allows them to thrive in learning environments, pushing too hard can deter that progress and leave them burnt out.

We’re here to help you determine when your parental pressure is hindering your child’s progress.

They’re Overtired

A clear sign that a child is burning out due to too much parental pressure is that they’re overtired even when they seem to get a good night’s sleep. 

Children are capable of wonderful things, but they need to do those things on their own time. When you push them too hard and expect too much, they won’t sleep as well. 

This can include pushing for academic success, extra-curricular activities, and even stress in their hobbies or around the house. 

They Start Doing Poorly in School or Daycare

You might be surprised to know that pushing your child too hard can actually undo some of the progress that they’re making in school. This could make you feel frustrated but consider whether or not you’re playing a part in their poor performance. 

Children who are overworked and tired won’t be able to focus while they are in school. They might start rebelling against school and learning or even acting out or being mean to others. 

Try not to punish this behavior. Instead, talk to your child and determine whether or not burnout is a factor. 

You’re Trying to Live Through Them

This is a common problem for parents, and it’s something that you’ll need to fix on your own. Introspect for a moment: is your encouragement for your child, or for you? 

Many parents try to re-live their childhoods through their children. It’s great to encourage your child to do things that you did (or didn’t get the opportunity to do), but are these things your child wants?

For example, a parent who loved to dance as a child may sign their own children up for dance classes even if the children are uninterested. Parents who were “gifted students” may push their children to reach that same level.

They Seem Depressed or Anxious 

Children who are overwhelmed and overworked will display symptoms of depression and anxiety. They may get upset if they think they haven’t performed well enough, even if their performance was better than average (for example, a child may get upset over a B+ grade instead of an A). 

Your child may also seem sad and listless instead of enthusiastic.

Children struggle to verbalize their feelings, and they may avoid talking about them if they’re worried about disappointing you. If you notice these symptoms in your child, you might be overworking them. 

Encouraging a Child vs. Overwhelming a Child: Which Do You Do? 

Children are sensitive. Despite their ability to learn quickly, it’s possible that your encouragement can overwhelm them. Encouraging a child to succeed is wonderful but be aware of the possibility that you might be pushing too hard.

Do you want your child to thrive in a supportive educational environment? Why not give them a great head start?

At Grow With Us Learning Academy, we know how to support your child’s growth without adding extra stress. Children can learn at their own pace in a fun and enriching environment.

Contact us to learn all about our programs and start the enrollment process for your child.