I agree. While those against standardized learning, opting for street smarts, often bash the sheeple educational system and go on to prove themselves right, I'd argue they're often the exception than the rule.
I didn't see it as abuse. To me, it was more like a sparing session between two people who know karate. Note the mom mentioned Mio practised karate, and I think her mom does so as well considering her moves and all. It was clear that she knew exacly what he was doing. For instance, she didn't actually land her kick at the end. That would have been too much. She only hit Mio once, and in a way that Mio was able to parry. The whole thing was under control.
lost my shit at the two page spread and absolutely understand mio crying over 6 hours of school per day in addition to nonstop studying outside of school. adults really do forget how hard and shitty an existence school life could be sometimes.