"Smart Kids"

I have a hard time grasping the thought that some families don't have many learning opportunities at home, therefore children will likely struggle more in school. What? Do parents not realize that learning begins at home? I think this might be the reason why parents are so set on getting their children enrolled in pre-schools early. They are too busy with their 'adult' lives, therefore someone needs too teach their kids. But, apparently, that is having a greater negative impact on children's lives--more so than parents are willing to admit. It seems that parents in Finland have the right idea. Construct a more relaxed environment, don't set overly high expectations in school and later in college, etc. It seems to be working because Finnish kids seem to be excelling greatly. So why, when we are so intent on improving our children, are we failing? Children need the opportunity to be children. Otherwise they'll burn out early and they wont be able to know when they can take a break. This is more harmful to them than almost any other form of abuse.