by Connie Blaine, Research Analyst
What do you do if your child is just not interested in discussing future career options?
Children and teens are already under a lot of pressure—from school, from friends (to be popular, dress “right” and fit in), and from you, in ways you may not realize. They have a very hard time visualizing the future at all, let alone making plans. Each of us develops interests and makes decisions at his or her own pace.
Expect your child to change his or her mind often about career choices. This is normal.
Don’t constantly question or nag your child about a career choice or plan. Instead, take advantage of moments that pop up where the discussion is relevant and just ask them what they are interested in, things they think are important (values), and use that as a springboard to talk about future plans a little at a time.
Stay positive and encourage your child to see the vast array of choices and options they have; empower them by encouraging them to make decisions themselves; and express your faith in them to make good choices.
Let the topic arise naturally and ask your child questions about their career ideas to get them to explore in depth.
Eventually, your son or daughter will want to get more serious about his or her future. When your child is ready, you need to be prepared to discuss the various decisions that will need to be made. You help as much by being available for discussing their ideas as you do by being knowledgeable about career opportunities.
Make use of the links in this publication to explore—and eventually steer your child to explore—possible careers (wages, training requirements, job outlook, etc.).
