The day has finally arrived, you are sitting in the front row cheering your teen on as they accept their diploma, a certification of their hard work for the past 12 years. Tears of joy stream down your face, as you sit back and see all the hard work and sacrifices you made throughout the years pay off. Now what’s next? Life after high school can be challenging for parents and teens. Is your teen preparing to go off to college, technical school, get a job or join the military? As a parent you would like to think your job is finished, but in reality your job is just beginning. Helping your teen transition into an adult is an important factor in their lives. If your teen is planning to attend college, it is important to help them plan. Attend orientation with them, get familiar with their schedules and talk with your child about being safe while at school.
According to healthychild.org if college is not an option for teen or your teen is looking to go directly into the work force, assist them in applying to jobs. If your teen is interested in joining the military, this can be an excellent choice for a teen who feels uncertain about the future. Discipline, earning money, saving for college, learning a trade all of this is often possible in the armed forces. Veterans are also entitled to many benefits both while in the service and after. However, your teen should carefully explore all the pros and cons of a military career. After all, if teens don’t like the service or if the thought of going to war seems too scary, they can’t easily drop out. If your teen wants specific training through the military, make sure the contract he or she signs includes that.
Source: healthychild.org