Congratulations! You did it, you helped your child get through high school. But you may be thinking well what comes next? How do I help my child transition into the next stage of life? Here are 3 ways to help make this season easier.
Although parents often feel overwhelmed by the transition to adulthood, there are many different options to achieve a positive outcome. As a parent, it is important to be realistic, objective, and flexible, and if you begin by understanding your child’s abilities and their support needs you will find a pathway that will lead to success and happiness.
Pathway 1 – College or University
If your child is interested in attending college or university, there are a few things you can do as a parent to ease their transition.
First, take some time to visit the campus with your child and attend any available open houses or information sessions. This will help familiarize them with the campus layout and introduce them to some of the staff and students who attend the school.
Second, support your child in researching different degree programs and figuring out what they might like to study. This can be done by looking at course catalogs online or speaking with guidance counselors at their school.
Lastly, assist your child with the application process by ensuring all documents are completed and submitted on time.
Pathway 2 – Apprenticeship/Trade School
If your child is interested in pursuing an apprenticeship or trade school after high school, there are a few things you can do as a parent to support them. First, encourage them to speak with friends or family members who have already completed an apprenticeship or trade school program to learn more about their experience.
Second, help your child research different programs that are available in your area. This can be done by looking online or visiting local schools in person. Last, support your child as they complete any applications or exams that may be required for admission into the program of their choice.
Pathway 3 – Workforce
If your child is interested in entering the workforce after high school, there are a few things you can do as a parent to ease their transition.
First, connect them with family or friends who work in their desired field so they can learn more about what the job entails on a day-to-day basis.
Second, help them update their resume and practice interviewing for potential jobs. This can be done by role-playing different interview scenarios or researching common interview questions online. Finally, encourage them to network with professionals in their desired field so they can make connections that may lead to future employment opportunities.
There is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to helping your child transition into post-secondary life. However, by being realistic, objective, and flexible as a parent, you will be able to find a pathway that leads to success and happiness for both you and your child. Remember to start by understanding your child’s abilities and support needs so you can find the best possible solution for them. We are here to help at Mind By Design. Share this with someone this could help!
