Pakistani actor and model Asad Siddiqui recently criticized the trend of sending very young children to school. During a television show, he emphasized that parents and schools often make a mistake by enrolling toddlers too early. Consequently, children may face unnecessary pressure and miss out on essential early development.

Siddiqui explained that his daughter is only 1.5 years old. Therefore, he believes sending her to school at such a young age is completely wrong. Moreover, he added that enrolling children even at four or five years old is still not ideal. Early schooling, he argued, often focuses more on routines than on real learning.

Furthermore, Siddiqui said most school systems prioritize earning money over children’s emotional and mental development. In addition, he pointed out that early exposure to schools can create social and class awareness among children, which may negatively affect their growth. As a result, parents themselves remain the best teachers during early childhood. Schools, he stressed, can provide support but only after children reach the appropriate age.

To reinforce his point, the actor gave an example from Finland. In Finland, children cannot attend school before age seven. Experts there say this age is scientifically ideal for formal education. Consequently, Siddiqui suggested that other countries should consider similar approaches to ensure children’s well-being.

Meanwhile, he referred to Islamic teachings. He noted that Islam encourages keeping children close to parents in their early years and guiding them personally. Therefore, early schooling is unnecessary when parents can play a more active role at home.

Siddiqui also highlighted that early structured education can pressure children, reduce creativity, and harm confidence. Furthermore, he said childhood is a critical period for emotional growth, which schools alone cannot nurture. Consequently, parents should balance early learning with play, family time, and emotional support.

In addition, he urged schools to adopt child-friendly methods and admit children only at suitable ages. Parents must evaluate their children’s readiness rather than follow social trends blindly. By doing so, children can enjoy learning, develop naturally, and build a strong foundation for future education.

In conclusion, Asad Siddiqui strongly warned against sending toddlers and very young children to school too early. He emphasized that parents play the most crucial role in early education. Moreover, he called for informed decisions on school enrollment, prioritizing children’s physical, emotional, and mental well-being above all else.

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