It is essential to establish the role of parents when it comes to academics.

Parents tend to involve themselves heavily in their children's schoolwork, with some even taking a year's leave to study with their child when he takes the Primary School Leaving Examination.

This adds stress on themselves and their children.

It is understandable that every parent wants the best for their child. However, such stress is unnecessary.

Parents could lower their expectations and encourage their children to be more proactive and independent in their studies.

They should move away from the overemphasis on academic achievements to help their children discover and pursue their strengths and aspirations.

A parent's job lies in understanding and acknowledging the strengths of their children.

When a child is affirmed in his strengths, he becomes more confident and can face problems with an optimistic outlook.

This is key to helping a child face the adversities and uncertainties in store in life.

Kek Siew Qi , 16 Secondary 4 student