School First…

 

First, Make Your Child a Good Student - Then Everything Else Will Follow…

By Dr. Sunil S Rana

In today’s world of cut-throat competition, it’s become almost fashionable for parents to declare what their children will be; sometimes even before the little ones have learned to tie their shoelaces. “My son will be a doctor.” “My daughter will be an IAS officer.” “We are grooming our child for IIT.” The dreams sound big, noble, and ambitious; but they often skip one critical step.

Before you make your child a doctor, engineer, civil servant, or entrepreneur; make them a good student.

The Pressure Cooker Childhood

Many parents, driven by the competitive nature of society, push their children towards their own unfulfilled dreams far too early. They start “preparing” them for a prestigious career while the child is still figuring out multiplication tables or learning how to write an essay.

This is not preparation. This is pressure.

And pressure, when applied too soon, can crush rather than shape.

School First - Dreams Later

The school years are not just about learning formulas, memorizing dates, or writing neat essays. They are about building the foundation; discipline, curiosity, comprehension, and consistent effort.

So, my humble advice to all parents is: Let your child first complete their schooling well.

Don’t burden them with your career blueprint when they’re not even mentally or academically ready.

Instead, focus on these basics:

1. Regular School Attendance - Send them to school every day, unless genuinely unwell.
2. Classroom Engagement - Encourage them to listen attentively and participate actively.
3. Daily Homework - A simple but powerful habit that reinforces learning.

Do just this much; and you’ll already be doing more than most.

Why This Works

A good student is not just someone who scores high marks; they are someone who learns how to learn. Once your child develops the habit of showing up, paying attention, and completing tasks, they will naturally acquire the skills to chase bigger dreams later.

The truth is, a strong foundation in school automatically sets the stage for success in any field; whether it’s medicine, engineering, administration, business, or art.

The Parent’s Role

Parents are the first teachers. If you demonstrate patience, prioritize discipline over shortcuts, and value steady growth over early glory, your child will internalize these lessons for life.

Avoid the trap of turning your child’s early education into a race. Childhood is not an entrance exam; it’s a foundation-building phase.

A Simple Promise

If you ensure your child:

• Goes to school regularly
• Attends each class with interest
• Completes their homework daily

…I can assure you; they will have every chance to become whatever you dream for them.

Because the world’s greatest doctors, engineers, IAS officers, and business leaders-were first good students…!