Monday, July 16, 2018

How To Encourage Kids to think outside the box

THERE ARE THE EXPECTATIONS OF 
MOST KIDS TO FOLLOW
A SPECIFIC FORMULA TO SUCCESS

I tell my kids, kick that formula and create your own.

There are some quick steps you can put into your homeschooling and guiding to get kids to find their own way.

TEACH THEM TO QUESTION

I always questioned as a kid. I didn't just accept anything I was told without chewing on it and wondering if I decided to go a different way, how I would do it.

My kids do debate with me at times. As long as their opinions are 'proven' I am willing to consider it. So for instance, my son said he wanted to be a Pilot, but didn't want to go into the military. I told him to show me the research and prove that he could accomplish his goal without going the customary path.

PATH MAPPING

I, being an engineer, have a mindset of creation of an initial path, then preparing for risk by creating backup plans or new paths.

I have my kids do this when they are trying to discover their career, their passions, their dreams. I have them map the way forward. It's gained us all some learning experiences.

ACCEPT THEIR WILD IDEAS

We have to stop blocking our kids big ideas. Sometimes, letting them go with the flow is the best opportunity. Accept these wild ideas. But make them prove it. You will be surprised where it takes you.