Why rushing children into academics could do more harm than good

Instead of focusing on accelerated academics, they say children need something much simpler, and far more powerful, in their early years: play.

For many parents, there is a growing pressure to give children an academic head start as early as possible.

From educational apps for toddlers to structured learning programmes before formal schooling begins, the message often seems clear: the sooner children start learning, the better their chances of future success.

But early childhood experts are increasingly urging parents and educators to rethink that approach.

Instead of focusing on accelerated academics, they say children need something much simpler, and far more powerful, in their early years: play.