Canteen Chats Ep 8 | Am I good enough? – The hidden cost of an education arms race

Are you good enough? Is your child good enough? These questions haunt parents and children alike in Singapore’s competitive landscape. In this final episode of Canteen Chats, we dive into the hidden emotional costs of an education arms race. Every parent wants the best for their child. But what happens when our pursuit for “the best” blinds us to what’s actually good for our child? Join actress and mum of 3 Lina Ng as she guides this honest conversation with guests who have walked this journey themselves: ● Dr Cheung Hoi Shan, Assistant Professor at NTU specialising in parenting research ● Mr Narasimman, who mentors youth at Impart ● Mr Ian Tan, dad of 2 and journalist-turned-lecturer at NTU They share deeply personal stories of disappointment, discovery, and hope. And reveal why a narrow definition of success is failing our children. More importantly, they share the practical strategies that have helped them to break free from the comparison trap. This isn't just about grades. It's about relationships, resilience, and raising children who know they are unconditionally loved. 0:00 Why parenting in Singapore can feel overwhelming 5:23 When high expectations meet harsh reality 10:14 Dealing with disappointments 13:18 The fear that fuels the pressure cooker 15:30 Hidden costs: What we're sacrificing for success 20:23 How to normalise failure 22:54 Do we love our kids unconditionally? 28:32 Getting to know your child beyond their grades 35:24 Final wisdom: “You are your child’s best bet” Watch our previous episodes of Canteen Chats with Lion Mums at    • Canteen Chats with Lion Mums   ============================================ Connect with us: ►Subscribe to channel: https://goo.gl/AaEGlb ►Facebook:   / moesingapore   ►Instagram:   / moesingapore   ►TikTok:   / moesingapore   ►X: https://x.com/MOEsg ►Online publication: https://schoolbag.edu.sg ►Telegram: https://t.me/schoolbag_edu_sg ►Website: https://www.moe.gov.sg/