All photos: Skylar Kang
Helping your teen plan for their future sounds like a big task, but it doesn’t have to be. You don’t need to map out their entire life or have every answer ready. What really helps is being there to guide them while they figure out what excites them and what kind of life they want. Whether they’re dreaming big or still unsure, starting those conversations now can make a huge difference later.
- Talk About The Financial Side Now
One thing that can get overlooked is the financial side of planning. You might think RESP contributions are only a thing to worry about when your kid is small, but that's not the case. You can still make a difference even if your teen is older. If you’ve been playing catch-up or started saving later, you might want to check out RESP contributions after age 17. It explains how to keep growing that fund and take advantage of what’s still available. Every bit helps, especially when post-secondary costs keep going up.
- Support Networking and Mentorship
Encourage your teen to build connections with adults who can provide invaluable guidance and insights into various career fields. These relationships, often called mentorships, can significantly shape their future path. It's not just about finding a job; it's about gaining perspective, understanding different industries, and learning from experienced individuals.
- Talk About What They Actually Want
Teens are bombarded with questions about their future, and honestly, it can be overwhelming. Instead of asking, “What do you want to be?” try something a bit lighter, like, “What kind of things do you enjoy doing?” or “What would you love to learn more about?” This can lead to more natural conversations about possible careers, courses, or trades that fit their personality.
Not every teen is wired for the same path. Some love the idea of university, while others might shine in hands-on training or creative industries. It’s more about matching their interests with real opportunities than pushing them into what seems like the “safe” choice.
- Encourage Trying Things Out
Experience is everything. If your teen isn’t sure what they want, that’s totally normal. Encourage them to try out different things. A part-time job, volunteering, shadowing someone at work, or even signing up for a short course can give them clarity. These little steps help them understand what they like and what they don’t, and that’s just as valuable.
You can also help them figure out how to build a simple resume or coach them through what to say in an email when they’re reaching out to someone for advice. These real-world skills are confidence boosters, and they go a long way.
- Keep the Pressure Low
Above all, keep the pressure low. Your teen doesn’t need to have it all figured out by the time they graduate. They need to know it’s okay to change direction or take a break to regroup. Your support means more than you think. Remind them they’re not falling behind just because someone else seems to have a “five-year plan.”
Final Thoughts...
What matters is that they feel like they can come to you, ask questions, and talk things through without feeling judged. You don’t need to be their career coach. Just be their cheerleader. That alone can shape their future in the best way.
