Kids are much more likely to pursue careers as future engineers if they have parents who encourage them to do so. According to a report from Engineering Brand Monitor (EBM) from EngineeringUK, which surveyed 4,000 youth and their parents, young people’s interest in engineering is highly influenced by their parents. Almost 9 out of 10 kids whose parents said they were confident advising their children about engineering careers said they were interested in pursuing an engineering career, while 78% of kids who regularly engage in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) activities with mom or dad said they were interested in pursuing a future in engineering.

How Can Parents Get Kids Interested in Engineering?

Ask your child how they would like to change the world. Then, help them figure out how becoming an engineer can help them achieve this. For example, let’s say your child wants to fight climate change.  Would they like a career in renewable energy? What skills are needed to work in that field? Thinking this through will help your child start to see themselves as a future engineer. 

Connect Engineering to Something Your Child Likes

You can also engage your child in STEM by connecting science and technology to something they already enjoy. For example, if your child loves video games, they may enjoy learning how to code, a skill used by game developers. 

Help Them Gain Skills 

The next step is to engage your child in fun STEM activities that will help them gain the skills and knowledge they need to be a successful engineer. For example, if your child is interested in learning about renewable energy, you can help him build a mini solar panel at home. 

Enroll Your Child in a STEM Program 

Search extracurricular activities — programs, competitions, science camps — that will further immerse your child in their STEM interests. Going back to the video game example, you could enroll your child in a coding competition or summer camp to encourage their interest in becoming a game developer.