Peer-reviewed article

Parental Participation in the Overschooling of the Junior Basic School Child in Nigeria

Ogadi, Amadi, Joy, Gertrude Uchechi Ohia, Nnamdi Anero · 19 Aug 2026

Abstract

The topic Parental Participation in the Over-schooling of the Junior Basic School Child in Nigeria focused on the role of parents in the over-schooling of the junior basic school child. The paper defines over-schooling as the phenomenon where children are subjected to excessive academic activities which are structured to demand educational virtues that can be deemed to be beyond what is developmentally appropriate for the child’s age and overall development or maturity. The paper defines junior primary school as the early years of primary education, which usually cover grades or levels for children aged 6-8 years old or basic one to three. The paper explains that parents are involved in various ways in the over-schooling of the child. In some ways, the paper suggests that over-schooling can stress, decrease child development: imposed stress, decreased motivation, and negative psychological well-being. However, the paper believes that parents have their reasons for involving their children in over-schooling. The paper justified the actions of such parents based on the educational trends in Nigeria like high academic expectations, limited access to quality education, competition for limited space, cultural emphasis on education, and early preparation for transition. It also enumerates the dangers of the negative impacts of over schooling on the child, as having negative impacts on cognitive development. In conclusion, it contends that finding a balance between academic preparation and allowing children to enjoy their childhood is essential, instead of over-schooling junior primary school children. It, therefore, among other things, recommends that children should not be enrolled in multiple educational programmes beyond regular school hours, and parents, educators, and policymakers should prioritise creating a supporting and nurturing environment that fosters children's overall development.