Category: Adolescent Development

Why Family Involvement Matters for Teens

Posted on by Ahmad Amirali

Last week, I sat down to watch The Blind Side again, the 2009 Hollywood film starring Sandra Bullock and Quinton Aaron. Though I’d seen it before, this time it struck me differently. Perhaps because, as a teacher and mentor working closely with teenagers, I’ve come to recognise just how fragile the teenage years can be and how much difference a caring family or even one caring adult can make.

The movie tells the true story of Michael Oher, who grew up facing poverty, neglect, and homelessness before becoming a star in the NFL. While it’s framed as a sports drama, I saw it less as a football story and more as a lesson on the importance of family involvement. As I watched Michael’s life unfold on screen, I couldn’t stop asking myself: What does family really mean for a teenager’s growth and development?

Continue reading “Why Family Involvement Matters for Teens” →

Why Do Children Need Encouragement to Become Original Thinkers?

Posted on by Ahmad Amirali

Researchers emphasise that originality is essential for children in all life fields, particularly in times of distress. Last week, a student waited after class and spontaneously asked, “Do I have a unique mind?” I paused before gently asking what prompted her question. She thoughtfully replied, “Sir, I think I am a good student,” rolling her eyes, “but do I have the kind of mind that can generate new and unique ideas? Or am I destined to spend my life listening to what other creative people say?” I reassured her, “There is no need to worry. Everyone feels this way sometimes. I even feel that my thoughts are copied occasionally, and that is perfectly normal. It does not diminish anyone’s value.” She smiled, and after further talk, we ended our meeting. This conversation, however, left me considering: Does originality truly matter when valuing ourselves or others?

Continue reading “Why Do Children Need Encouragement to Become Original Thinkers?” →

Student Burnout – Academic Pressure Causes High-Level Anxiety

Posted on by Ahmad Amirali

Parents Beware: “If You Are Not Ahead, You Are Behind” Is Not a Healthy Mental Strategy

Today, high school is more challenging for students than ever before. The constant pressure to excel academically, participate in extracurricular activities, and prepare for the future often leaves students overwhelmed. Recently, at a parent orientation, a story was shared that highlights this struggle: a student who had fallen behind on several projects because of pending physics assignments. She still lagged behind, despite giving up her summer holidays to try to catch up. This chaotic academic pressure affected her social life; she became less engaged with family and friends, and suffered from irregular sleep and anxiety attacks over minor issues. Despite these warning signs, her parents insisted on extra evening tuitions, hoping she could keep up with the class. Unfortunately, cases like hers are becoming increasingly common, highlighting a worrying trend: students feeling burned out, exhausted, and unable to enjoy learning or life.

Continue reading “Student Burnout – Academic Pressure Causes High-Level Anxiety” →