Communicating with Your Child
Are you coaching your child toward a career? How’s the communication going? If you’re like me, you’ll be tempted to talk, talk, talk. But, now is your time to listen, listen, listen.
Many students get worldly vocational advice but are in desperate need for Christ-centered guidance.
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, nearly 80% of students in America change their major at least once. And, on average, college students change their major at least 3 times over their college career. That’s an investment of time, money, and emotion.
To effectively help your student, you’ve got to listen. You won’t have all the answers, but you can encourage, and affirm how God made them.
You can’t immediately express your thoughts and feelings, but must draw out what’s going on in the depths of their hearts. Solomon said, “Counsel in the heart of man is like deep water, but a man of understanding will draw it out.” That drawing out is your goal, your privilege, and your responsibility.
Exploring careers requires patience. Ask questions, listen well, and stay away from unnecessary commentary. Be sensitive to them and do not dismiss the dreams they confide in you. Teens are sensitive and easily hurt; your respectful, positive words are essential for them to trust and listen to you.
When they open doors to communicate, give them your full attention with eye-to-eye contact and hands free of distractions. Stop what you’re doing to show how much you value them. Then, allow them to guide the discussion.
It’s important to choose a time when they’re not tired, preoccupied or hurried. Prepare good questions, and choose the right words to encourage them to talk. Ask the Holy Spirit to give you discernment and wisdom to guide them into careers that will honor Him and bring them satisfaction.
I would encourage you to take the first step towards opening that communication with Career Direct. This assessment looks at 4 key areas of your child and gives you a great opportunity to encourage and affirm them. Learn more at crown.org/careergift