by Amber Hilton

Created on: February 19, 2007   Last Updated: December 07, 2009

It is often difficult for parents to watch their child take a different path in life than the one they had envisioned for them. A mother or father who is athletic and passionate about sports may find it hard to accept a child who shows more interest in art than in football.

Parents must strive to remember that children are individuals, not extensions of themselves. Don't try to live out your dreams through your children or force your children to adopt your interests.

Many times, when parents try to extinguish their children's dreams, they do so with the best of intentions. For example, a parent may be hesitant to support a child's dream to pursue a career in music because they think it is unpractical.

They worry about whether or not their child will be able to support themselves or if they will be able to handle possible rejection. However, supporting your child's dream doesn't have to mean giving in to their every request. You don't have to allow your child to move to Hollywood to pursue an acting career to show that you support their dream.

There are things that you can do and say while still helping to protect your child's best interests. For example, offer to help pay for some acting lessons, run lines, or drive him or her to nearby auditions.

The best thing you can do is to genuinely take an interest in whatever interests your child. You will gain a better understanding and appreciation of your child's interests and will bond with your child while doing so. Knowing that they have your support may be more important to your child than you might think. As long as they are not physically or emotionally hurting themselves or others, try to stand behind them. Accept and love your children for who they are and inspire them to do their best and reach for the stars.

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