3 Thing That Will Set Up Your Kids For Success

As parents, we all want the best for our children. We want them to be prepared for whatever life throws their way—whether it's solving real-world problems, being financially independent, or leading with creativity. But have you ever wondered: Are traditional schools giving our kids the skills they really need to thrive?

The traditional school system was designed in a different era—an era where memorization and following directions were the keys to success, because the final goal of most students after they got their degree was to go work for a company for the next 50 years and do as they are told and not challenge the status quo. So schools taught kids how to sit still, do what they're told, and pass tests by regurgitating facts. But in today’s fast-paced world, is that enough? With the raise of AI and the fast pace of technology the next generation biggest asset will be the ability to think.

The Problem with Memorization & Following Directions

Memorization is Not Enough 
Sure, learning basic facts is important. But simply memorizing information without understanding how to apply it in the real world won’t get our kids very far. Real success comes from knowing how to think critically, problem-solve, and innovate not just from recalling facts on demand.

Memorization doesn’t teach kids how to ask questions, think creatively, or develop new ideas. And yet, that’s exactly what the world needs from the next generation.

Following Directions Won’t Build Leaders 

Schools are great at teaching kids how to follow directions. But the truth is, real leaders—whether in business, art, or any field—are the ones who think outside the box. They challenge the status quo, question assumptions, and make decisions based on their own judgment and insight.

Do we really want our kids to grow up thinking that the key to success is following the rules and blending in? Of course not! We want to raise innovators, creators, and problem solvers—and that means encouraging them to do more than just follow directions.

What Schools Aren’t Teaching (And Why We Should)

Financial Literacy 
Do schools teach kids how to manage money? Rarely. Most kids graduate without knowing the basics of budgeting, saving, or investing. Yet, these are some of the most critical skills for living an independent, successful life.

Start talking to your child about money—how it works, how to earn it, and how to save for goals. You can even start with small, simple lessons like setting up a “saving jar” or discussing the difference between needs and wants.

Real-World Problem Solving 
Most school assignments have clear-cut answers. But the problems our kids will face in life often don’t. The ability to think critically, navigate ambiguity, and solve complex challenges is something we need to foster outside of school.

Encourage your child to take on small, real-world projects at home. Whether it's planning a family outing on a budget or tackling a small DIY project, these experiences help them learn how to face challenges, make decisions, and come up with creative solutions.

How to Be an Entrepreneur 
Schools focus heavily on teaching kids how to be good employees. But what about being a good entrepreneur? What about taking initiative, creating value, and building something from the ground up? These skills are crucial in today’s rapidly changing world, where the ability to create your own opportunities is key.

Introduce your child to the idea of starting a small business or taking on side projects. Whether it's selling old toys online or starting a neighborhood service, kids learn invaluable lessons from seeing how their efforts can turn into real-world results.

How Can We Help Our Kids Think Beyond the Classroom?

We’re not saying school is bad. But we do believe that traditional education is only one piece of the puzzle. If we want our kids to be leaders, thinkers, and creators, we need to supplement what they’re learning in school with real-world experiences that build the skills schools often overlook.

Here’s How You Can Start:

• Encourage Curiosity: Instead of focusing on the “right” answers, encourage your kids to ask questions and explore topics they’re passionate about.

• Foster Problem-Solving: Let your child tackle problems without immediately stepping in. Whether it’s figuring out a solution to a small household issue or working through a difficult homework assignment, giving them space to solve problems builds critical thinking.

• Create Opportunities to Lead: Whether it’s in family discussions or through small projects, give your child the chance to lead and make decisions. Leadership isn’t just about taking charge—it’s about thinking independently and taking responsibility for outcomes.

At the end of the day, we all want to raise children who are ready to take on the world—children who are not just good at memorizing facts or following orders, but who know how to think, solve, create, and lead. It’s up to us to fill the gaps that traditional schools leave behind.

Thanks for being part of this journey with us. Together, we can raise a generation of future innovators.