The solution is not necessarily to remove extracurricular activities. Sport, music, arts and other activities can contribute to confidence, discipline, social development and wellbeing.

Instead, parents should build a realistic weekly schedule.

Start by identifying the child's non-negotiables:

• School

• Sleep

• Meals

• Physical activity

• Family time

Then allocate academic preparation around these commitments.

Selective preparation should focus on high-value activities rather than maximum volume. A focused 30-minute session addressing a specific weakness can be more productive than an unfocused two-hour session.

Parents should also distinguish between skill development and test practice.

Early preparation may involve mathematics reasoning, reading, vocabulary and writing development. As the assessment approaches, more time can shift towards timed practice and exam strategy.

Watch for signs of overload:

• Persistent reluctance to study

• Reduced sleep

• Loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities

• Irritability

• Falling school performance

If these appear, review the schedule rather than automatically adding more preparation.

The objective is to create a sustainable routine in which selective preparation becomes one component of the child's education, not their entire identity or weekly schedule.

A balanced student is more likely to maintain concentration, motivation and consistent performance over the long preparation period.