I’m sure most of you would know by now that your children DO watch what you do and say, especially when you see them doing what you just did! And I’m not just talking about how we act around them, but what we do as a living or a hobby too.

For instance, my three children know that I run an online business, in fact they know I run two businesses. One Baubles, Bubbles & Bags and the other Just Us Kids Online – or rather my 8 and 6 year old do. They understand that I have a website for both stores as well as run parties for Baubles, Bubbles & Bags. During the last Summer holidays, towards the last few weeks, the girls then decided to start their own shop. A pretend one of course. What amazed me really, was the fact that they sat together and held a “meeting”, discussing what should be sold, where to set the “store” up, and even thought of having their own website! At dinner we discussed their “opening” and even ventured into delegating the different tasks between the two. Using their strong points – one very good at art work and the other very good at talking, they decided who should do the “marketing” (signage) and selling. Not wanting to leave their 4 year old brother out, they managed to include him to be in charge of security! Yes, it seemed all cute and funny, but both my husband and I had to encourage them in their efforts, despite it being just pretend play.

Another good example of following in their parent’s footsteps is Alana of Alana Designs. She is only 13 and has been in the business since she was 10! Her mum is also an entrepreneur – Anne Maybus, who runs Clever Streak and Banner Bitz. It is amazing how such a young girl can have so much drive and focus, and I do think it helps when they do have a rather great example to follow.

Basically, I think besides being a good lead, it is also essential that we give encouragement, and help with providing the right information into the direction the child wants to pursue. As they say, the world is your oyster, and I think with the right example and opportunities, it certainly is.