Several well-known Pakistani actors have encouraged parents to raise children who are confident, responsible, and capable of managing everyday tasks independently.
During a television discussion on parenting, Sharmeen Ali, Sunita Marshall, and Saima Qureshi highlighted why practical life skills matter as much as academic success. They agreed that both boys and girls should learn essential responsibilities from an early age.
According to the actors, children should not grow up depending entirely on their parents for routine tasks. Instead, families should prepare them to become self-reliant adults.
Everyday Life Skills Build Confidence
Sunita Marshall explained that parents can encourage independence even if safety concerns limit outdoor activities.
“We can’t always send them out because of safety concerns in Karachi, but we can teach them independence in the house. We can tell them how to make their beds, how to fry an egg. At least, we can make our kids independent enough that they are not at our heads every second,” she said.
She also pointed out that extracurricular activities help children become more organized.
“With extracurricular activities, kids learn to be independent because of time management. My son knows he has to go rowing at this time and then to tuition. They learn how to manage these things themselves.”
Her remarks emphasized that daily routines can teach responsibility without placing unnecessary pressure on children.
Household Responsibilities Should Be Shared
Saima Qureshi said good habits begin at home. As a mother of three sons, she encourages her children to participate in everyday household work.
“I tell them to make their own beds, wash the dishes, make their tea or coffee, keep the house clean and iron their clothes. If the maid does not come, I ask them to help with the dusting. If we do not develop this strictness early on, they will not do anything,” she noted.
Meanwhile, Sunita revealed that household duties are shared equally in her family.
“We have turns. I would do one day, then Hassan [her husband], and the kids have their own separate days.”
The actors agreed that shared responsibilities help children become disciplined and independent.
Independence Should Never Depend on Gender
Sharmeen Ali stressed that household work should never be divided between boys and girls.
“Normalising this is important,” she said.
The actor further added, “Kids should do it regardless of whether they are girls or boys. Unfortunately, working mothers cannot be available 24/7, and if we are at work, our kids should be able to find solutions themselves. Necessity is the mother of invention.”
She also shared how learning to drive changed her own life after her marital separation.
“I felt true independence when I learned how to drive. When I moved back to my mother’s place after my separation, I started taking driving lessons. If you stay dependent on the fact that you need someone’s help to even go down to the next street, then you will always remain that way. How long will you depend on rickshaws?”
Sharmeen added that driving gave her confidence and inspired her to teach the same skill to her daughter.
“When I started driving, I felt like I could do everything. I think we need to teach children this kind of independence from a younger age. I think about safety, but my daughter is turning 17, and one of the main things on my list is to teach her how to drive,” Sharmeen shared.
Digital Platforms Can Support Learning
The discussion also explored the growing influence of digital technology on children.
Although the actors acknowledged concerns about AI-generated content and excessive screen time, they agreed that online platforms can also improve learning when used responsibly.
Saima recalled moments when her children corrected her after learning new information online.
“Sometimes I tell them how to do something, and they tell me I’m doing it wrong. Then I start learning from them, and they become even more interested. Even we, as parents, can be wrong.”
Similarly, Sunita described how her son developed a strong interest in history through YouTube.
“My husband and I were watching a movie on World War II, and I asked my son to join us because he loves history. He started explaining every single historical fact. He had learned it all from YouTube before it was even covered in school. It really depends on the child’s interests,” she noted.
However, Sharmeen emphasized the importance of setting healthy boundaries.
“You have to set them a task and say, ‘Complete these questions, and then you can do your favourite activity,'” she said.
Education Must Remain the Priority
While discussing extracurricular activities, Sunita reminded parents that education should remain the primary focus.
“Education is also important. Yes, my son could get a rowing scholarship, but academics comes first. He doesn’t have to be at the top, but it is important to at least have average marks,” she stated.
Saima also highlighted the value of staying actively involved in children’s lives.
“I like to be very involved. I was very strict even though my son is now engaged. I’m always making sure he’s on time. I also worry about his friend circle. I like to stay close to my children,” the actor shared.
The actors concluded that close parental involvement, balanced guidance, practical life skills, and shared responsibilities can help children grow into confident and independent adults.
