Raising Children to Become Entrepreneurs…
Kid / Teen entrepreneurs are a big business, some earning millions, they are determine, focus and playing by their own rules. And it’s not just roadside lemonade stands and bake sales, either.
These days, “kidpreneurs” are making grown-up money with businesses from web design to toy consulting to natural product creators to lawn services, even magazines and radio shows. Nothing has been off limits.
Even if your child doesn’t have a business of their own yet, you can teach them how to become more entrepreneurial by following these easy tips.
Let them help with your business ( research your city because their are regulations, called Child Labor Laws) but we all know parents are the first and greatest example of everything. If you’re not an entrepreneur being supportive in their dreams by assisting is just as important. (It’s not unusually for our kids to teach us). Most kidpreneurs will tell you that they got their first exposure to entrepreneurship from mom or dad, helping you with small tasks or just seeing you in action teaches they the ropes.
Since we are in the techno age, they may know more than we do with this social media jazz. But filing papers, typing documents, maintaining the office, filing orders and even sealing and mailing envelopes give them tons of exposure to being in business for yourself.
Assisting them to understand the value of being your own business ( big or small) helps them to see one of the quickest way to build wealth, and puts them in control of their financial destiny. Explain the difference between and employee and an employer.
Scout out and encourage them to join Jr. Entrepreneur programs, Toastmasters, Jr. Achievement and National Business Camps for kidpreneurs that’s provided in various states, most have grants and require no payment. A great program is Network For Teaching Entrepreneur
Have them watch the behavior and success of other entrepreneurs, such as Oprah, Bill Gates and even explaining how artists are entrepreneurs helps. Seeing is believing and helps build their confidence that this can happen for them too!
Giving them these options aren’t saying they can’t or shouldn’t work for someone else (be an employee because they is definitely value in those opportunities as well). However, if they choose that route and it’s not for them, things don’t work out, they are equipped with the basic tools to have the confidence to go it on their own.
Check out these tips:
• Never let “I can’t” be an answer: This should be a resounding concept in your home, self-defeat is not an option, try, try and try again is the way. Asking for help when needed is strongly encouraged.
• Teach them responsible law abiding practices: A major part of successful business ownership is the ability to maintain accurate records and policies. Teach them about money management and how to attain the financial skills needed to run a business successfully.
• Get them involved in community activities: Getting in the graces of the community is an extra reward. Not only will this help them to feel involved, but they will learn service, which is an important part of entrepreneurship. Encourage them to volunteer and teach them about the importance of giving back.
• Emphasize education: Drill home the significance of education and training, whether formal or informal. Let them know that to be a successful entrepreneur, they will need a solid educational foundation.
So go and cheer, cheer, cheer for your teenpreneurs!!!
