IS AN EXTRA LESSON IDEAL FOR EVERY CHILD IN SCHOOL?
In today’s competitive academic environment, extra lessons or after-school tutoring have become quite popular. Many parents consider it an essential part of their child’s education, hoping it will boost academic performance. But the real question remains: Is an extra lesson ideal for every child? At Citytop schools, we believe that every child is unique, and so are their learning needs. Every child has a unique quality that makes them stand out. While extra lessons can be helpful, they may not always be necessary for everyone. In this article, we will explore the benefits, risks, and how to decide what’s best for your child. When Are Extra Lessons Beneficial 1. When a Child Needs Academic Support If a student is struggling to understand concepts in certain subjects, extra lessons can provide the personalized attention they need to catch up and build confidence. It gives them the edge to confidently ask questions for children who are uncomfortable asking questions in class. Some children need more than the time in class to excel academically, and that is why extra lessons are important. 2. To Reinforce Learning Some children benefit from repetition and guided practice beyond the regular school hours. The limited time in school may be too short for them to think carefully and revise the concept being taught. Extra lessons can reinforce what was taught in class and improve retention. 3. Preparing for Exams or Transitions During exam periods or when transitioning to a higher class level, targeted extra lessons can help students feel more prepared and reduce anxiety. It also gives them more time and space to ask questions about what is challenging them and get proper guidance on it. 4. For Highly Motivated Learners Some children enjoy learning and want to explore topics deeper than the classroom allows. They may develop a peculiar interest in a subject and would want to go beyond what they are taught in class. Extra lessons can satisfy their curiosity and challenge them further. When Extra Lessons May Not Be Necessary 1. If the Child is Already Performing Well A child who is doing well academically and understands class content might not need extra lessons. Some children are naturally gifted with the ability to retain and understand faster than others. Adding more academic load could lead to unnecessary stress for such children. 2. Lack of Rest and Play Children need time to rest, play, and be creative. If extra lessons eat into this time, it can lead to burnout, a lack of interest in learning, or even emotional fatigue. The quote “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy” was intended for children—children need to have time for fun and rest. When they are always bombarded with academic tasks, leaving no time for rest, it can distort their emotional and mental stability. 3. One-Size-Fits-All Tutoring Extra lessons that aren’t tailored to a child’s specific needs may not be effective. Every child learns differently, and a generic approach might do more harm than good. There are so many subjects/courses being taught, and a situation where a child is given an extra lesson on all these subjects, in a bid to help them excel academically, will affect them instead of helping them. Parents should examine their children to ascertain the special needs of the child and proffer solutions to them. 4. Pressure from Parents or Peers Some children are enrolled in extra lessons simply because others are doing it. This can create unnecessary pressure and anxiety, especially if the child doesn’t need it. So, How Do You Decide? Here are a few things parents should consider: Observe your child’s academic performance, attention span, and attitude toward learning. Talk to the teacher to understand if the child needs extra support in any subject. Ask your child how they feel about their studies and if they’re overwhelmed or under-challenged. Assess your child’s schedule to make sure there’s enough time for rest, play, and other interests. Our Approach at Citytop Schools At Citytop Schools, we assess each child’s learning needs individually. For students who need support, we offer structured academic reinforcement programs during and after school hours, but always with balance in mind. We also work closely with parents to ensure that academic growth does not come at the cost of emotional well-being or a joyful learning experience. Extra lessons can be helpful, but they are not a one-size-fits-all solution. The ideal approach is to know your child, understand their learning needs, and create a supportive, balanced environment that fosters growth both in and outside the classroom.