If your child is a teenager, they’re probably going through a lot of major life decisions, many of which involve career and personal growth. According to statistics, almost 2 in 5 15-year-old students did not have a clear career plan.

It’s up to parents and other mentors to help teens manage complex issues like how to choose the right career or how to work toward personal growth. So come on, let’s start reading!

1. Attend Their Academic Functions

Schools always conduct different academic programs. Being their parent, you need to make time to attend these functions. Whether there’s a virtual parent-teacher session or an in-person one, make it a point to attend the event.

Teenagers perform better in school when parents support them academically. Even if the event seems to be a small one, try to support your kid by showing up.

This will also allow you to interact with the school faculties and understand what they’re expecting from your child. School administrators might discuss important policies, so it’s always best to be involved.

If your child excels in a specific subject, seek online schools in Los Angeles, where the platform connects them with world-class mentors who further enhance their skills and knowledge and help them build a career.

2. Don’t Be Kids’ Decision-Maker

When your kid was small, you could make decisions on their behalf, and nothing major would happen. But since your little one isn’t so little anymore, it’s now time to let them decide what’s best for themselves.

Of course, you’ll still be their mentor and best friend, but you have to empower your child so that they can understand right from wrong.

For example, instead of forcefully dictating your choices on them without giving any clear explanation, focus on collaboration and brainstorming sessions with your child.

If the environment is supportive instead of judgmental, your teen boy or girl will automatically want to come to you for the right advice.

3. Show Them The Importance Of Efforts

Teenagers often go through a phase where they believe that they’re not smart or able enough to perform well in school.

If you see that your child is also going through a similar phase of low self-esteem, be as encouraging as possible. For example, if they’re not performing well in a specific subject, make them understand that there will be other, more interesting subjects in the future.

Show them that while it’s important to study all subjects and participate in extracurriculars, they don’t need to be perfect at everything.

Paying attention to your teen’s weaknesses will also show you their interests and capabilities that will guide them in the future.

4. Start The Career Journey Early

Teenage is the best time to help your child prepare well for the future. This is the phase where they’re old enough to understand what they want to pursue but also young enough to explore as many options as possible.

Try to read about all the possible opportunities available, including online classes and workshops.

For example, if your child is interested in athletics and sports, help them connect with experienced mentors through an online school for athletes. They’ll offer guidance with a tailored curriculum around their passions and insights into regular subjects by linking them with athletics.

Moreover, it’s important to not impose your career preferences on them as it could cloud their judgment. Show them a list of all possible career options aligning with their interests.

5. Inspire Them Through Stories

When you were a teenager, you might have experienced unpleasant moments of self-doubt. Share these stories with your teenage child so that they feel less alone.

Show them relatable stories of personal growth and academic success to motivate them.

Remember, there is a lot to be shared from one generation to the other, so drawing on cultural strengths and stories can be a great source of inspiration for teenagers.

You can tell them stories of your past or stories of current relatives or ancestors. It’s important not to focus on only success stories as that can create a sense of insecurity in teens, so show both sides of the coin.

Conclusion

Teaching your young ones the importance of organizational skills is also a good way to help them manage career expectations and personal growth. When they master the art of staying focused and dedicated, they’ll be great future leaders in no time!