Most children don’t have any idea what they wish to do for a career, although there will be exceptions. In order to help students work toward their future, whether they know or do not know what they plan to do, there are a few characteristics we as parents can nurture and instill to assist in the process. The top two suggestions being a well spoken student possessing a strong personal portfolio.
All too often, students will achieve high grades but are unable to speak confidently. Thus, it is a good idea for your kids to involve themselves in speeches and debates in the classroom and possibly in competitions. If they prefer not to do this, it can be a good idea to go to toastmasters.org, an organization designed to help kids with public speaking and the interview process. No matter what kind of speaking is pursued, it is best to learn to speak in front of others. All too often, families become so involved in their own activities. When it comes time to apply for a college, university or vocational school, to enlist in the military, or to enter the job force, there definitely can be a major rush to fill out applications where they will ask for the individuals’ thorough background.
So, here are some suggestions for the different sections of a portfolio:
The first section: of the portfolio should include a chronological listing of letters of recommendations from teachers, coaches, principals, assistant or vice principals, school counselors, people in the community, and possibly government officials. These letters of recommendation should be written by individuals who favorably view your kids. Essentially, these letters of recommendation show how your children are in terms of personality and work ethic.
The second section of the portfolio should contain a chronological listing of certificates and awards. The certificates can be for perfect attendance, no tardies, and any other kind of certificate that shows what they have accomplished as being noteworthy. The awards can even be for participating in contests, consisting in anything from spelling bees to science and math competitions.
The third section: of the portfolio can include a chronological account of school and community involvement. School activities such as participating in student government, rallies, sports, and peer tutoring are very appropriate. Community involvement is highly recommended, like participating in the Special Olympics, charity walks, cleaning up the environment, helping at family shelters, and any other activity that benefits the community overall.
The fourth and final section: of the portfolio can be school transcripts on a yearly basis. It is suggested that you and your kids develop the portfolios together, because they need your direction, but they also need to be actively involved for their own future. When your kids determine now what they wish to do, they will be thankful to have learned how to speak in front of others and how to develop a portfolio for whatever they intend to pursue in the future.