HOW TO HELP KIDS THINK ABOUT THEIR FUTURES

According to the latest figures, three quarters of UK teens want to grow up to be social-media influencers. If yours has lost interest in school and ‘normal’ jobs, Emma explains what to do

Research has claimed that 75 per cent of kids have said they want to grow up to be a social-media influencer. This makes sense, as there is big money to be made for a lucky few, but it also means that an unrealistic amount of young people are setting their sights on a career that needs a plan B.

WHY GRADES MATTER

Every parent should be their child’s greatest cheerleader, but even the most famous online stars may eventually wish to pursue another career, which is why working hard and attaining decent qualifications should still take centre stage in your kids’ plans. My youngest son wants to be a stunt man, so when I am telling him to revise , he is busy throwing himself from trees and watching action films. Helping him understand he still needs to focus on schoolwork is a struggle.

BE A TEAM

If your child sees school as more of a burden than a bonus, meet each other halfway. I have had to let go of the academic expectations I held for my son, to some extent. These were my dreams for him, not what he dreams for himself. He does his schoolwork and will revise for his GCSEs, while I have become supportive of his goals, having also learned about what is required to make them a reality and shared that with him. If your child shines at certain interests, rather than worrying about what they won’t achieve, look at avenues where they will. Explore all opportunities including BTECs, apprenticeships and the new government kickstart scheme. Often, children haven’t heard about alternative routes, so highlighting them can instil confidence. If your child wants to be an influencer, educate them about privacy, and encourage them to be safe while posting content online.

EXPLAIN THE REALITY

Remind them that trolls are a big problem and help them consider whether they are resilient enough for a life in the public eye. Remind them that a passion for their chosen influencing area is more important than the number of views they accumulate, and explain that success takes patience and dedication, whatever field they choose.