How to Help Your Child Choose a Career Path: Parent Support & Insights
Did you know over 80% of young people say their parents are their biggest influence when it comes to career choices?
Yet, only 1 in 3 parents feel confident advising their child about all the options out there – from apprenticeships and gap years to tech startups and creative careers. With the job market changing faster than ever (65% of today’s primary school kids will work in jobs that don’t exist yet), it’s no wonder parents want more support.
That’s where we come in. Our resources, guides, and research-backed insights are designed to help you feel informed, empowered, and ready to support your child’s unique journey – whatever path they choose.
What You’ll Find Here
60% of parents wish they knew more about non-university pathways. Our guides are here to help you feel informed and empowered.
The Latest Parent Support Topics
Parents’ Views on Youth Careers in Essex, Hertfordshire & Suffolk
What do parents in Essex, Hertfordshire & Suffolk think about youth careers? Explore new research and tips to support young people’s career choices.
Not Just University: Explaining the 5 Pathways Young People Can Take After School
Discover all the options open to your child, from university and apprenticeships to work, traineeships, and more.
How to Have Empowering, Low-Stress Career Conversations with Your Teen
Learn how parents in Essex, Hertfordshire & Suffolk can support teens with stress-free, empowering career conversations. Practical tips from inyourroots®.
Why Parent Support Matters
When parents feel informed and supported, young people are more likely to explore their options, feel confident about their choices, and find a path that fits them – not just what’s expected.
If you’d like to explore more ways to support your teen’s career journey, these trusted UK resources offer practical advice, guides, and real-life stories for parents and carers:
Have your say
All parent support research is focused on Hertfordshire, Essex, and Suffolk, but we share national trends and real-life stories from across the UK.
WE WOULD LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU
Join the research and take part in our surveys
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
New Here? You’re Not Alone.
Got a question? We’ve got you. Here are some quick answers to what people ask us most. If you can’t find what you need, just reach out. We’re here to help!
How can I help my child choose a career path if I’m not sure what jobs are out there?
Our local labour market map and video explainers make it easy to get up to speed on what’s available in your area and beyond.
What if my child doesn’t want to go to university?
There are more options than ever—apprenticeships, work, gap years, and new types of training. Our guides break them all down so you and your child can explore together.
How do I talk about careers without putting too much pressure on my child?
We’ve put together practical tips and real parent stories to help you have open, supportive conversations—no pressure, just possibilities.