Debbie discusses how parents can help guide their children towards their hopes and dreams. You'll learn how a creating a vision looks different for different age groups and also discusses tools that can be used to support your learning while implementing the vision.
Remember, teachers are usually only with our children for one year, so parents are the guide and the driving force. Trust your parent gut, but don't limit your child's vision, especially if they have special needs. Let them dream! It's not about creating false hope, it's about learning how to get them as close to their dream as possible.
A child's vision is often put in writing at age 14-16, but Debbie recommends doing this earlier so you can learn what their interests are and help guide them in areas of interest from an early age.
A basic vision guide: Ask yourself where do you see your child right now, a year from now, and five years from now? Really close your eyes and visualize your child: Who are they? What are they doing?
If they are younger, are they tying their shoes, learning to ride a bike, or reading chapter books? If they are older: Do they have dreams of acting? If so, do you see them in a drama group in school or can they join a local group? If they love sports, are they involved in school sports and city leagues?
Remember this vision can change, so be adapting.