AWARENESS PHASE - Pre-K to Grade 3

In elementary school, students develop an awareness of careers.

Pre-K to Grade 3

Developmental Traits

• Needs and seeks attention
• Has boundless energy
• Considers fantasy as reality
• Needs confidence building
• Shows a variety of tension-releasing behaviors

Career Needs

• Distinguishes between work and play
• Identifies different types of work
• Experiences different types of work activities
• Demonstrates a positive attitude
• Identifies personal feelings

Parent Involvement

• Listen and encourage
• Encourage involvement in a variety of sports/hobbies
• Positively reinforce child for completing chores
• Praise efforts toward work as well as accomplishments
• Show an interest and stress the importance of school
• Give toys that promote role playing
  

Grade 4-6

Developmental Traits

• Is more independent
• Feels that belonging to a group of friends is important
• Can assume more responsibility
• Has a surprising scope of interests
• Can think on own, but is influenced by others

Career Needs

• Identifies personal interests, abilities, strengths, and weaknesses
• Describes how work at home and /or school relates to jobs in the community
• Describes how work is important and attainable for all people
• Describes how personal beliefs and values affect decision-making

Parent Involvement

• Encourage good work habits at home. Gradually add responsibilities. Effort/experience are more important than quality
• Avoid assigning jobs at home by sex to avoid stereotyping
• Identify various workers in your community
• Participate in the school's career education program
• Listen as your child makes decisions. Keep in mind peer pressure