It is well-documented that parents are the biggest influence on their children’s education and career aspirations, A successful leverage of this influence can provide a substantial return. However, research including a survey by Year 13 (2017) found that parents and children are stuck in a cycle of being uninformed regarding career pathways.  While many career websites have information for parents, parents often find this information difficult to relate to, interpret and apply in conversations with their children about careers.

The Australian Parents Council applied for funding to undertake a journey of discovery regarding why parents’ values matter and how we could empower parents to use values in careers discussion with their children.  Our project was focussed on helping parents with self-understanding through self-reflection on values, so parents can consciously and responsibly exercise their influence on their children’s careers in an optimal way.   A Values Activity was developed, comprising a values quiz, values cards and worksheets with exercises for parents to do with children and family members.  Parents using the Values Activity report a variety of beneficial outcomes including greater self-insight, awareness of intergenerational patterns, new perspectives on inner and outer conflicts, renewed clarity of purpose and respect for their child’s vocational journey.  

References

[1]        R. &. S. W. Bisson, “After the ATAR: Understanding how Gen Z Transition into further education and employment,” Year 13, Australia, 2017.

[2]        S. Gemici, A. Bednarz, T. Karmel and P. Lim, “The factors affecting the educational and occupational aspirations of young Australians,” NCVER, Adelaide, 2014.