Parents Education Corner: Are You a Dreamer?

“If you can dream it, you can do it.” — Tom Fitzgerald (Disney Imagineer)

What do you dream about? What do your children dream about? When you look five, ten, or even twenty years into the future, what does that look like for you and your family?

This October, I invite you to make space for these big questions—not just for your children, but for yourself.

As we approach Halloween, we often see our children trying on new identities. They might dress as superheroes, astronauts, explorers, or historical figures. While the fun is in the candy and the costumes, these outfits are also a perfect, low-pressure entry point for meaningful conversation. A child dressed as a pilot isn't just playing; they are stepping into a future version of themselves. Use the excitement of costume shopping or DIY projects to ask: "What do you like about being a [character/profession]? What kind of adventures do you think you’d go on if you were really doing that?"

I remember being in elementary school and being asked what I wanted to be when I grew up. That question often came from elders in my family, and no matter how lofty or whimsical the answer, it was always received with genuine encouragement. That validation gave me the confidence to persevere later in life when classes and career paths became more challenging.

I encourage you to use this month to dig deeper into your children's dreams. Ask them why they are drawn to a certain profession or adventure. Research the path together: read books, watch videos, or think if you know someone in that field who could share their experience.

These opportunities to listen and support our children pass quickly. When times get tough—when your child asks, "Why am I doing this?" or tells you, "This is too hard"—you will have these memories to draw upon. You can remind them of their dreams and the conversations you shared.

And if the dream changes? That is perfectly okay. The goal isn't to lock them into a single career path from age seven; the goal is to build a habit of dreaming, exploring, and communicating. It is these consistent, supportive conversations that help them navigate challenges as they grow. By staying connected now, you ensure they will continue to confide in you as they transition into adulthood