Over the years, their ideas usually change as kids learn there aren’t many jobs for cowboys. Parents can play an important role in helping children plan their careers. Here are some ideas:

• Talk about your job with your children. Let them know what you do—and why it’s important.

• Try to let your children see where you work. A trip to the office on Saturday can help a child get a clear picture of where you spend your time.

• Let your children know that school is their most important job.

• Give your children responsibilities. Expect them to complete their tasks carefully and on time. Talk about how they are learning skills they’ll need at work.

• Talk about how your rules at home or school relate to rules at work. Be positive. Say, “We need to get our work completed on time or no one in our office would get a paycheck. Finishing your homework on time is important, too.”

• Volunteer to come to school to talk about your job. Many schools sponsor a career day. Others welcome parents who can talk about their work.

• Help your children learn to solve problems by themselves or with others. In today’s workplace, problem-solving and teamwork are valuable skills.

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