For Parents For Schools Get in Touch

From Daydreams to Direction: Helping Kids Find Their Next Step

In this episode, Scott Schimmel explores one of the most important but often misunderstood questions we can ask our kids: "What are you going to do next?" Rather than applying pressure or demanding perfect plans, Scott unpacks how to cultivate clarity, confidence, and ownership in our kids’ lives—encouraging purpose-driven action rooted in imagination, hope, and small next steps. This episode is a must-listen for parents, educators, and mentors who want to raise proactive, purposeful young adults without overwhelming them.

What You'll Learn:

Why “What’s next?” is a powerful question for teens How imagination and daydreaming relate to long-term vision The difference between pressure and healthy responsibility

How to break big goals into small, doable steps

How to support kids without controlling their decisions

How modeling and storytelling foster growth and clarity

Parenting Tips Highlighted: Use open-ended, purpose-driven questions Celebrate small steps and progress Model vulnerability and share your own path Shift from managing to coaching 💬

Quote of the Episode: “Purpose is rarely found in a single moment—it’s built through small intentional next steps.”

Close

START Being More Intentional With Your Kids!

Besides keeping your kids healthy and safe, what else can you do to ensure they'll become happy and successful adults? With the time you have with them—downtime, drive time, meal time, and bedtime, what will YOU do to engage them intentionally? 

Each week, we'll send you an actionable tip on how to engage more with your kids, whether they're 8 or 18.