STOP raising kids that are "all-rounders". Instead, help them find their edge.

What if instead of aiming to raise “all-rounders,” we helped our children find their unique strengths and develop their potential?

I am constantly on the look out for ideas, strategies and methods that can help me become a better, more present parent for my kids... one that helps them fulfill their potential (and me keep my peace of mind). I like to stand on the shoulders of giants - and get inspiration from those who walked the path before me. And this inspiration comes from various places: business, comedy, research...you name it! As Jimmy Carr - a highly accomplished British comedian - discussed in a Diary of a CEO podcast episode, the world rewards those who lean into their talents, personal passions and strengths.

For this week’s food for thought, I would love to share a comment Jimmy made, that resonated with me:

"I think school teaches us maybe the wrong lesson. School teaches us a lesson about mediocrity and being all-rounders.

And yet we live in a world that does not reward all rounders. Who gives a **** about all rounders? (...) So find out what you've got a natural edge in. Find out what you have a natural ability for. What's the thing that you do best? And again, I would remind people, it's not the best in the world. Just better than anything else you do. Lean into that."

At Academicus, we encourage exploration in areas like language, music, and sensory activities, allowing children to experience many fields and gravitate toward what excites them. By giving children the space to explore and excel, we can guide them in finding their "edge"—the unique strengths that will help them thrive.