I haven't posted in a few days because I've been at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. Once I get back I'll have many posts about all the great new personal electronics for teens and families. In the meantime, here is a wonderful guest post to help you help your teen make decisions about their future.

“Mom, what should I be when I grow up?” :  A Parent’s Guide To Helping Their Teen

By: Viola Twelves

As a mother, I know how difficult it can be to get your children to do the things that are best for them.  Take eating their vegetables as an example.  I am in a constant battle with my 3 year old as I bribe her… I mean, encourage her to eat her vegetables.  But what happens when your preschooler turns into a high school senior on her way to college?  How can you encourage your child to do the research necessary to make the right decisions about college majors and careers?  I’m not sure bribing is an option this time!  

We’re all aware that today’s youth want everything in a push of a button.  After all, that is how they live, through the click of a mouse, cell phone, and iPod.  However, when making one of the most important decisions in their lives, they can’t just press a button.  There is research, exploring, and reflecting involved.

It is our job as parents to lead our teens through the steps necessary for them to make an informed decision.  Talk to your youth about their talents, likes, dislikes, and priorities.  This is a great place to start.  From there, encourage them to explore their career options by speaking to someone in that profession or even participating in job shadowing.  Have your child take time to reflect on the things they have learned about themselves and these potential professions.  

This decision takes time and thought, however, there are tools available to make this process simpler, save you hours of research, and give you real insight into a variety of professions.  Take the responsibility to be there for your youth and guide them through this pivotal decision.  Share your own parental wisdom, find more useful tips and join the conversation!

See also:  
Your LifeBox Helps Teens Follow Their Dreams to a Career
10 Ways Parents Sabotage Job Search and 5 Ways Parents Can Help
SuperFutures Offers Teens Online Guidance Counselors


 

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