Higher education scientists and intellects who are parents, what if your child feels that they have to be...?

Intelligent parents want their children to make the best use of whatever their gifting happens to be. That might not be academic. They want their children to get the best education possible for those particular children. Parents should insist that, if at all possible, each child master at least the very basic skills needed to operate in modern society. Beyond that, educate and develop skills according to each child's ability and interests. Give at least some emphasis on skills likely to earn a living. If a child of mine did below-average work in school, I would be quite satisfied if that's the best they were capable of. I want my children to be responsible, moral contributing members of society. Beyond that, I try to help them discover what's best for them, and to help them pursue it.