Gap Year

Gap Year

Your teenager had finished high school and wants to take a gap year before starting life as a university student or in the real world of work and responsibility.

So what is there for them to do? 

• They can get a job, or
  various jobs that give them experience in their chosen field.
  
• They could work as a volunteer for YMCA or other places that are based in our own countries
• They could travel
• They could travel on an around the world ticket and work their way from country to country
• They could work overseas for a charity 
• They could stay in education and beef up their grades or take a wider variety
  

There is much to be done, and there is much to be learnt.  This is a pivotal time in their lives and one where they can mature greatly.  Last year a friend of mine was on a gap year.  She had some amazing experiences, she travelled to many places and saw many things, but all of it was handed to her on a plate - like she deserved it.  She put little or no effort into organising and preparing to go to these places and she actually benefitted less as a result.  Each time she came back she would visit me and show me her pictures and tell me of what she saw and learnt.  But ther was little depth to her learning experience. 

Whatever they decide to do, they must grasp it with both hands and wring all the experience they can from it.  Take the responsibility and the initiative themselves.  You will find that it pays off tremendously both for you as the parent as well as for them.  And yes, it will be hard to see them grow and fly the nest, but the satisfaction that they are making rational decisions and living their life their way - you will see the results of the previous 16-18 years worth of parenting, advice, pain and support.  It is wowrth it.

OK so I havent done it yet, but I have worked with youth for many years, and I have felt proud as their youth worker/friend, and I have spoken to parents who have been letting go and observed how proud they are of their children.  When it comes time for me to let go it is gonna be hard, I know that already, but I also know that I am gonna do all I can between now and then to equip my girl (and any others that come along in the meantime) so that she will be able to take care of herself competently and fairly and with savvy.
Peace
EF.x