Career: Don’t destroy your children’s life – Expert warns parents

Parents have been advised to support their children’s abilities, goals and aspirations instead of imposing their desired career on them.

According to a 2021 survey by Joblist, 48 per cent of people felt that their parents strongly influenced their career path, while almost 40 per cent felt pressured to follow their parents’ career advice.

This most times has brought about dissatisfaction and unfulfillment in the children.

Mr Adeyemi Ajayeoba, an educationist, warned that while this might hinder children from reaching their desired goals, it can also destroy their future.

Ajayeoba spoke at the graduation ceremony of Great Standard Montessori Model School, Abeokuta.

He said, “Don’t destroy the future of your children, because some parents want their own desire to prevail. There are some children who want to be a teacher but most parents will tell them ‘No, I want to have a doctor, I want an Army General in the home’, discouraging that child from becoming what he or she desire in life.

“If your child has chosen the part of becoming a teacher, a lawyer or whatsoever career, let us encourage them as parents.”

In his remarks, Tiwalade Akingbade, the school’s chairman, appealed to parents and guardians not to use the economy as an excuse but ensure they give their children quality education.