24/07/2026
THE SADDEST THING I SAW AT MY DAUGHTER'S SCHOOL GRADUATION TODAY.
, ....Wasn't a Poor Result...
A parent stood up and shouted at her 9-year-old son because he came 6th in class instead of his usual 3rd position.
Not long after, I was sitting beside my third daughter when another mother scolded her own child for coming 3rd.
I watched the little boy's face.
At first, he looked like he wanted to explain.
Then he became quiet.
Then... confused.
It broke my heart.
Imagine working hard, looking forward to telling your parents your result, only to discover that your worth is tied to a number on a report card.
Many children are not afraid of failing.
They are afraid of disappointing the people they love the most.
As parents, we must be careful not to make our children believe that our love, acceptance, or approval depends on their position in class.
Instead of shouting, pause and ask:
"What was difficult this term?"
"Which subjects challenged you?"
"What do you think you can do differently next time?"
Celebrate effort before correcting results.
Praise growth before pointing out mistakes.
Help them make a plan instead of making them feel like a failure.
Children who feel safe with their parents are more likely to be honest about their struggles, ask for help, and keep trying.
Remember this:
Your child will forget their class position one day, but they will never forget how you made them feel because of it.
Raise children who love learning not children who are terrified of disappointing you.
That is how confidence grows.
Olayemi Emmanuel
