What do you want to be when you grow up? It’s a question we’ve all heard, and even as adults, it’s a question many of us still think about. Who do we want to be, what impact are we hoping to make with our lives, what career will bring us purpose, and what legacy will we leave behind.
Take Your Child To Work Day was originally founded by the Ms. Foundation as Take Your Daughters to Work Day in 1993 to inspire young women to think about their futures. However, as of 2003, in order to reflect the fact that women now make up a larger percentage of the workforce, the name was changed to include sons and daughters. Our workforce is constantly evolving, but this day is still one of the best ways to inspire our children and help them understand the realities of the working world.
Here are four ideas for observing Take Your Child to Work Day and supporting your child as they explore the various careers their future may hold.
#1 Take Your Child To Work
This first idea is obvious, but taking your child to work with you is truly one of the best ways to inspire them and get them thinking about what it is they want to do, or just as helpful, what they don’t want to do. In order to make the most of this day, you will have to plan ahead to work out the best experience for you and your child. Make sure you check in with your manager and your child’s school and do your best to plan an immersive and unforgettable experience for your child.
#2 Explore Different Fields of Interest
Exposure is a large part of Take Your Child to Work Day, but it doesn’t have to be limited to this day alone. There are lots of ways to give your child a glimpse into different careers. Talking about different jobs and doing research is a great way to foster your child’s interests. This process will vary for different ages, but almost all kids can enjoy reading and learning about different careers.
#3 Follow Your Child’s Lead
Although you may have ideas about what a good career looks like, it’s important to be supportive of your child’s interests. Talk to them about what they may want to be, find ways for them to learn more about what they’re interested in, and encourage them to partake in hobbies that will develop the skills they may need later on. Additionally, remember that most people cycle through multiple interests before they settle on the perfect choice for them.
#4 Connect With Small Businesses
These days, there are many young and inspiring entrepreneurs. It is not uncommon to hear of a child who is running their own successful business. Whether starring on Youtube, making slime, or another business endeavor there are many possibilities for your business-minded children to pursue. Introducing some of these young entrepreneurs to your child by purchasing their products, doing some research, and shopping small businesses is a great way to show them what’s possible.
This year, Take Your Daughter and Son to Work Day falls on April 28th, but having conversations about career paths and business can happen year-round. No matter how you decide to facilitate these discussions, Childwatch is here to help parents and childcare providers stay in touch as they work together to create the workers of our future.