The recent proposal to extend school hours to align with work schedules has sparked debate among parents and policymakers. While the intention may stem from a desire to support families in achieving a better work-life balance, it raises significant concerns about the emotional and developmental well-being of children.
As a counsellor and advocate for children, I believe it is crucial to highlight the essential role that parental presence plays in a child’s growth.
Children thrive on quality time with their parents, as these shared moments lay the foundation for emotional security, self-esteem and resilience. Whether through bedtime stories, meaningful mealtime conversations, or simply being present during moments of play, these interactions cultivate a child’s sense of belonging and safety.
Extending school hours risks diminishing these invaluable opportunities, replacing them with structured environments that, while beneficial, cannot replicate the unique love, guidance and connection that families provide. While this time needs to be good quality time with engagement, one needs to be cautious not to use the term quality time to justify less time with their children.
Arguments in favour of longer school hours often point to international models, where extended schedules result in reduced homework and more relaxed evenings. This model may be effective in certain contexts, but only where play, creativity and physical activity are prioritised. Without a similar focus, longer hours risk becoming a mere extension of academic pressures, leaving children with little time to decompress, engage in unstructured play and explore their own interests.
Childhood should not be treated as an extension of adult work routines. It is a time for wonder, exploration and joy. Overloading children’s days does lead to stress, burnout and mental health challenges for everyone involved as young minds are deprived of the freedom necessary for healthy development.
“Childhood should not be treated as an extension of adult work routines”
The hours children spend outside of school are the times when they learn to navigate social settings, cultivate friendships and pursue passions. Whether joining a local sports team, practising a musical instrument, or simply playing outdoors with friends; fostering a sense of identity and well-being. Extending the school day could inadvertently encroach on this critical time, limiting children’s opportunities of free time to recharge and express themselves creatively.
Instead of altering school hours, the focus ideally shifts to implementing more family-friendly workplace policies that empower parents to be more present, be it, flexible work schedules, remote work options and comprehensive parental leave that can provide families the support necessary to balance professional obligations with personal connections.
It is also important to recognise the diversity of family needs. A one-size-fits-all approach overlooks the unique challenges faced by present-day families. Tailored solutions that consider varying circumstances are far more effective in fostering the well-being of both children and parents.
By prioritising policies that strengthen family bonds and that respect the holistic needs of children, we can create a society that values both productivity and the health of future generations.
While the concept of extended school hours may originate from good intentions, its potential impact on children’s emotional and developmental health cannot be overlooked. Childhood is a fleeting yet foundational stage that deserves to be protected and cherished, not compromised.
William Hayman is a counsellor and vice-president of MACP – Malta Association for the Counselling Profession.
If you’re interested in learning more about the counselling profession or would like additional information on mental health and self-care, visit www.macpmalta.org, www.facebook.com/ CounsellingMaltaMACP or e-mail info@macpmalta.org.
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