INTRODUCE KIDS TO VARIED ROLE MODELS

Since Emma Raducanu won the US Open, requests for tennis lessons have soared, proving the importance of inspirational heroes

Many children see their parents as their primary heroes, but it can also be useful to look beyond the family. Take 18-year-old Emma Raducanu, who won the US Open recently – seeing her success, many young people now want to try the sport too. Footballer Marcus Rashford, 23, is another example – a young man who came from a very loving but deprived background and has gone on to play for his country and change many lives for the better by raising millions for charity and campaigning for free school meals for thousands of kids. It’s not just sports idols who motivate and inspire kids. Find out what really interests and excites your child, then find individuals who thrive within that area. You may have a child obsessed with space – they could read books and watch films by Professor Brian Cox, or you may have a future star chef who would love not just to watch Junior Bake Off but to make the recipes and try to create their own. It’s also important to find role models on a local level. I can think of two teachers whose words saved me on so many levels when I was a troubled teen, thanks to their belief in me. These everyday heroes are everywhere, so if you have a child with a particular skill, interest, or talent, the likelihood is that within your social network there will be someone who either knows about that area, or can connect you with someone who does. Connecting your child with people like this, and letting them explore their passions, will give them a message that you believe in them and, more importantly, you wish to support them on their journey to success.