“What do you want to be when you grow up?” is often asked of children, but it can sometimes feel limiting or challenging to answer.

We’ve gathered some questions, by age level, that might help spark curiosity, encourage reflection on their unique interests, and open the door to natural, supportive conversations about the future. Try a few of these prompts and let’s inspire our kids to think about not just what they want to be, but who they want to become.

Elementary School Level

1. What do you enjoy learning about the most?
   (Follow-up: Why do you like it? What’s the coolest thing you’ve learned recently?)
2. If you could try out any job for a day, just for fun, what would it be?
3. What kind of activities or games make you lose track of time because you’re having so much fun?
4. What’s something you’ve done recently that made you feel proud of yourself?
5. If you could invent something to make life easier for people, what would it be?
6. What do you think makes someone really good at their job?

Middle School Level

1. What are some things you’re really curious about right now?
   (Follow-up: Have you thought about how people work in those fields?)
2. What’s a problem in the world or your community that you’d like to help solve someday?
3. Have you learned about any careers in school or from friends that sound interesting to you?
4. Do you prefer working on projects with others or on your own? Why?
5. When you imagine yourself as a grown-up, what kinds of things do you picture yourself doing?
6. What skills do you think are important to be successful in life? Which of those do you feel like you’re already good at?

High School Level

1. What classes or activities make you feel the most energized or excited? Why?
2. Have you thought about what kind of lifestyle you want to have as an adult? (e.g., where to live, work-life balance, etc.)
3. Are there any people you admire because of the work they do or how they live their life? What do you admire about them?
4. What do you think is most important in a career: doing something you love, earning a high salary, or helping others? Why?
5. What do you think about the idea of trying out internships, job shadowing, or summer programs to see what careers are like?
6. Have you talked to any school staff, like your counselor, about careers or college? How can I help you with that?