The Two Most Important Skills to Teach Your Kids
T-minus 10, 9, 8…
Mia stood nervously in the middle of the school library.
Wearing a DIY orange jumpsuit with NASA patches, she took deep breaths and centered herself.
7, 6, 5…
She had practiced for weeks, alone in front of the mirror, in our living room, even while brushing her teeth. She was ready. Still, the moment was overwhelming.
4, 3…
A wave of kids and parents poured into the space. Tables lined the room, each one proudly displaying a project. We approached Mia’s, and she smiled:
“Hi, I’m Mae Jemison”, Mia said proudly, “and I am the first African American woman to travel in space…”
2, 1… Liftoff.
In today’s Daily Dad meditation, Ryan Holiday reminds us that two of the most important skills we can teach our kids are: writing and public speaking. He writes:
“It’s on us to teach our kids these important skills—to make sure they’re able to express themselves on the page and in person. We’ve got to give them the opportunities to get up and address an audience, and encourage the confidence required to be comfortable doing so.”
I couldn’t agree more.
Being able to communicate clearly is a superpower. It helps us build healthy relationships, thrive in business, and participate in our communities.
Even in a future filled with robots and A.I., those who can express themselves clearly, and move people, will have the edge.
I’ve shared before how hard it is for me to see my kids on stage. They’re exposed. Vulnerable. And we can’t protect them from how it might go. But we have to give them reps. In school, in family gatherings, or even just when ordering their own meal at a restaurant.
As Ryan says: It’s our job to make sure they’re ready.
Then it’s up to them how far they’ll go.
Mia went to space and back that day. Who knows where she’ll go next.
How do you help your kids practice expressing themselves?
Leave a comment or message me, I’d love to hear your stories.
And remember, we can’t always be great parents, but:
“Remember this: try.”