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On any holiday in New Zealand, walk into a local library and you will see children exploring in different ways. Some local kids might be flipping through storybooks, while many Indian-Kiwi kids are sitting together with their parents, working through Math and science workbooks.
This simple scene shows a big question every family face: What makes a happy and successful childhood?
To understand why many Indian parents encourage extra study, we have to look at where they grew up and how they were taught in childhood.
In India, school is known for having a strong focus on Math, Science, and high academic standards. Because millions of students compete for great education, working hard and getting top marks is seen as the best way to build a strong and secure future. It is also a point of great pride for the whole family.
When parents move to a different country, they bring this deep respect for learning and discipline with them. They want to give their children every possible advantage. Because they love their kids and sacrificed a lot to move to a new country, they naturally encourage and expect them to aim high.
While wanting the best for a child comes from a place of love, too much pressure can sometimes feel heavy. If you focus only on marks, a child might feel that their value depends mostly on test scores and grades. When high scores feel like the only goal, children can become afraid of making mistakes or trying new things.
Blending Two Good Approaches:
The New Zealand school system encourages learning through play, group projects, and sports. Kiwis believe that being active, making friends, and playing outdoors are just as important as reading and math.
On the other hand, the Indian tradition brings wonderful strengths: a strong work ethic, deep respect for knowledge, and amazing focus.
When children get to enjoy both worlds, they don’t have to choose between working hard and having fun—they get the best of both.
Here are a few reminders for parents to keep childhood happy and balanced:
Praise the Effort, Not Just the Score: Celebrate when your child works hard, shows kindness, or tries again after failing—not just when they get an A.
Make Time for Free Play: Playing outside, drawing, or building things without a guide helps children learn how to solve problems on their own.
Remember Every Child Is Unique: Success isn’t a race with a single winner. A child’s true success is shown in how confident, happy, and healthy they are. -by Kalli Sravya Rao, Kallisravya is a Psychology and Education graduate based in
New Zealand.