Expert Reveals Key Strategies to Shield Children from School-Related Burnout

In an era of intense academic and extracurricular pressure, school children are increasingly vulnerable to burnout, a debilitating state of mental, physical, and emotional exhaustion. The constant push for achievement, coupled with anxiety about future studies, is creating a high-stress environment for young learners. Recognizing this growing crisis, parents are being called upon to play a proactive role in safeguarding their children’s well-being.
A clinical psychologist, Meghna Kanwat, offers crucial insights for parents navigating this complex landscape. She emphasizes that the first step is to manage expectations. “Setting realistic goals and expectations, not driven by perfectionism, helps reduce anxiety in children,” she advises. This approach shifts the focus from flawless performance to personal growth and effort, creating a healthier learning atmosphere at home.
The psychologist also highlights the profound impact of parental stress on children. When parents are overwhelmed, their stress can inadvertently transfer to their kids, often through harsh discipline or emotional unavailability. Therefore, parents must first manage their own stress levels, adopting a gentler, more supportive approach, particularly when their child is already feeling pressured.
A strong parent-child relationship is another cornerstone of preventing burnout. Open communication, where a child feels safe to express their fears and struggles, is vital. When parents respond with empathy and emotional support, it builds resilience and assures the child they are not alone. This nurturing connection acts as a powerful buffer against external pressures.
To intervene effectively, parents must learn to spot the early warning signs of burnout, which can include persistent fatigue, a cynical or negative outlook, a sudden drop in academic performance, and social withdrawal. Validating a child’s feelings and experiences is critical. By acknowledging their struggles, parents keep the lines of communication open, ensuring their child feels heard and supported through challenging times.