When it comes to our kids’ futures, it’s never too early to start exploring options with them. Sure, they might be dreaming big now – wanting to become astronauts, lorry drivers, rockstars, or veterinarians – but as they grow, those dreams may change or evolve.
By introducing casual conversations about college and careers early on, we’re not pushing them into making decisions. Rather, we’re planting the seed of a wide range of possibilities.
But there’s a little more to it than that – so let’s jump in.
Start The Conversation Early
The best way to broach the subject of career choices is to start the conversation early.
We don’t mean you need to drill the idea of being a doctor into your four-year-old (as we know that all kids have very ambitious plans at this age), but we do suggest starting the conversation from the late primary school mark.
At this age, kids are maturing and developing a sense of self and their abilities. They’re also curious, open to new ideas, and are starting to think about their future. And, with GCSEs around the corner, they’ll need to start choosing subjects that align with their future plans, too.
Here are a few suggestions:
- What are your kid’s interests?: Listen to what your child is interested in – are they asking questions about being a doctor, lawyer, policeman, or teacher? Allow [kids to open up about their feelings] and what job they might be keen on doing.
- Strike up casual conversations: Instead of formal “we need to talk” discussions, weave career talk into everyday conversations. For example, you might be watching a documentary about scientists and ask your child what they think about that profession.
- Give career ideas: Speak with your child about various jobs and what they involve. Perhaps there is something they have never thought about before such as plumbing, working in social services, fashion design, or IT programming.
- Workplace visits: Take your child to visit your workplace or that of a friend or family member – even a local business (with prior arrangements, of course). This firsthand experience can spark interest in various professions.
- Talk about your own job: It’s also a good idea to talk to your kids about your own or other family members’ jobs. This gives them an inside view into your professional day-to-day life alongside the pros and cons of the career.
- Talk about AI: As AI advances, it’s important to talk with youngsters about choosing careers that are less likely to be replaced by machines. Experts predict that jobs like administrative roles may eventually be taken over by AI, so guiding kids towards AI-proof careers can help them prepare for a secure future.
Expert opinions
Experts from Youth Employment UK say it’s important for parents to talk to their kids about their own jobs as it can “help children better understand what work looks like and that it is more than simply going to the same place every day. It can help with future conversations you can have about your child’s careers.”
Get The Ball Rolling: Encouraging Interests And Skills
Another important thing to look at is your children’s capabilities, interests and skills. Not everyone is a brainy-box and is destined to be the next Albert Einstein – and that’s totally fine!
Parents need to realise that every kid is different, with unique strengths and weaknesses. For example, you might have an older child who is soft-spoken, super disciplined, and organised, while the other is a negotiating king who even makes you want to eat your veggies.
It’s less about forcing them into a job you think is right and more about working with what they have. Here are a few things to think about:
- Individual talent: Work with your kids – not against them. Looking at their individual strengths and talents is a surefire way to gauge what career they might be good at one day. For instance, some youngsters are better at numbers than others, making accountancy a possible career; others might prefer the limelight and being on stage – hello, Britain’s Got Talent!
- Hobbies and extracurricular activities: You might find your kid is really good at sports, drama, art or music, which could potentially pave the way to a bright future. It might be worth looking at private coaching or joining a club to nurture and encourage these talents – you might just have the next Harry Kane (or Harry Styles) on your hands!
- Don’t clip their wings: Don’t be “that” parent and push your hopes and dreams onto your kids. This only makes them feel pressured and, ultimately, unhappy. While yes, it’s great to brag about having a doctor in the family, it might not be something your child necessarily wants to be. Parents should be proud of their kids in whatever job they choose.
When To Get Serious? High School Years
Right, so you’ve spoken about different careers and nurtured your child’s individual strengths and talents.
Now what?
As your child enters secondary school, it’s time to shift the focus of your conversations from general career discussions to more specific ones about further education (FE), college, or university. The subjects they choose from here on out will directly impact their future careers. The marks they receive will also determine whether they qualify for university.
- Secondary school: As your kid approaches 14, they must choose GCSE subjects. While maths, English, and science are compulsory core subjects, they’ll need to decide which others they want to do to align with their future career. For instance, biology and chemistry are needed if they want to be a doctor; while physics, computing, and design and technology are necessary for engineering.
- Sixth form college: After completing their GSCEs in secondary school (and by the time they are 16), teens can continue their education by enrolling in sixth form or college for two years. This is where they will work towards their A-levels or vocational qualifications.
- Next step: From here, kids have the option to go to university to earn a degree, work towards a diploma through an apprenticeship, or go straight into the working world.
- Discuss finances: Talk to your kid about the financial implications of going to university, openly and honestly. Explain to them that with good marks, they might qualify for a scholarship or bursary to help pay for their studies.
The Conversation Continues
Remember, the journey of exploring future career paths is ongoing. As your child grows and their interests change, so should this conversation. The key is to keep communication open and honest and nurture their interests, talents and skills.
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Discuss various career options with your child from a young age and chat about what it would be like to be a scientist, doctor, ballerina or chef – the career choices are endless! Once they reach secondary school, these conversations can become a bit more serious as GCSE subject choices are just around the corner.
Whether you’ve reached this milestone or not, please leave any comments, tips, or suggestions in the comments below.
We’d love to hear what you think…
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