How do we know if we're educating our children right?

But while we pour our resources into their education, the challenge lies in balancing investment with freedom. For me, that balance is key to raising a well-rounded, happy child.

My spouse and I made the decision early on to enroll our child in a prestigious private school, often referred to as a "rich kids' school" due to its high tuition fees. We viewed it not as a luxury, but as a long-term investment in our child's future. I'm aware that not everyone has the financial capacity to make such a choice, but for those who do, the investment goes beyond money. It's about the opportunities we offer while also ensuring our children feel supported, not pressured.

At home, we don't push our child to over-study. The school provides enough structure with daily homework and extra help sessions where top-performing students assist those who are struggling. We trust this system, allowing our child to take responsibility for their studies.

Children go to school in Osaka, Japan. Photo by Unsplash/notethanun

Instead of enforcing rigid study schedules, we focus on fostering curiosity. Encouraging our child to watch educational YouTube videos in English on topics like math and critical thinking helps expand their knowledge in an engaging way. They also have ample time for entertainment: TV, video games, musical theater and piano lessons all serve to balance their life, ensuring they are not just focused on academics, but also on personal growth. Martial arts and fencing further develop their resilience and competitive spirit.

Our approach to dinner conversations is also intentional. These moments help us stay in tune with our child's daily life and school experiences. Through open dialogue, we aim to create an environment where our child feels happy, secure and free to explore both learning and leisure.

Of course, all this comes at a cost, financially and emotionally. The years of investment from the age of three to high school graduation are substantial. But if you have the means, this is an investment in both education and the holistic development of your child. It's not just about academics, but about equipping them with the tools to thrive in a challenging world.

It's important to recognize that financial privilege allows us to provide certain advantages for our children. However, the same principles of freedom, balance and responsibility apply to all families. Success is not something that falls from the sky. It's earned through perseverance and effort. As parents, we are here to pave the way for our children by offering them the best tools, but it's ultimately up to them to climb each rung of the ladder themselves.

The key, in our view, is giving our child the freedom to arrange their time, to enjoy both studying and playing. We remind them regularly that life is not easy; no one hands you wealth or success. Instead, we give them a pathway to follow, a strong foundation from which they can launch into adulthood. Whether they reach their goals or not, it is their journey to make.

In our family, my spouse and I take a dual approach to parenting. One of us plays the stricter role, pushing our child to meet monthly academic goals, while the other serves as the comforting figure, easing the pressure. This balance ensures that our child stays motivated but not overwhelmed.

I hope that other parents can adopt a similar balance in their own homes. Giving your children room to grow, learn and play without the constant pressure to perform might just be the most effective way to raise successful, happy adults.