But Should You Step In?
This is a tough situation to be in, and experts generally agree that the best thing to do is to stay out of it.
Why?
At the end of the day, it is unlikely that what you say will change his or her parenting style, instead you may just strain your relationship and more importantly, make them feel as though you are judging them. If they are a close friend who has come to you to seek advice about their child’s performance, offer them sympathy and light guidance.
For example, suggest that you’ve read that a child who feels tremendous pressure from parents – no matter how good the parents’ intentions – can sometimes react with the opposite behavior.
To calm the parent’s anxiety over their child’s success, praise their child. The best thing to do is to point out the child’s strengths. Let the parents know how well their child handles herself on the playground or how he always seems so confident when he rides his bike. These are just two examples, think of others that you are aware of from your experience and dealing with the child and parents.
This is also great advice if you are a childminder or a friend or family member taking care of a child from a high-pressured environment. Although you may not agree with the family’s parenting style, you can talk to them about their child in a positive manner and assure them that they are living up to their expectations.