It is an area many of today’s youth and young adults increasingly struggle with, and by default, their parents as well.
How to pinpoint an area of study after high school and what career to pursue can be daunting questions for the student evaluating their options and for the parent who may elect to let their child lead the decision-making process.
The knowledge economy, access to information via the internet and social media, the future of work, global uncertainty, and other factors can be both beneficial and intimidating for a young adult looking to take the next step in their academic and life journey.
The COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic has added a new layer of questions and potential anxiety for students about their post-high plan — one which could include university, college, vocational school, travel, a gap year or other options.
“The first and most important thing is, accept your child for who they are, honour their uniqueness, they are not a miniature version of you,” says Sabrina McTaggart, a mom of two boys in their 20’s, Based in Ottawa, Ontario, McTaggart also brings the added perspective of being career coach, who specializes in supporting teenagers and young adults from 15 to 24 years of age.
“They have their own skills, their own natural aptitudes their own things that they’re interested in. So accept them for who they are, be supportive, and really try to listen with an open heart instead of shutting them down,” she says.
During an interview with Lianne Castelino of Where Parents Talk TV, McTaggart shares:
- Tips for parents on how to support their child with discovering their talents and choosing a career path
- Advice for students on creating a career plan
- Keeping the lines of communication open between parent and child on the topic of career
- Pros and cons of a ‘gap year’
- Fostering independence in young adults while maintaining accountability
- What age and how to get career discussions started with a child
Watch the video interview:
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