A vivid imagination is one of the most precious things about a child’s life. It is the ability to make believe or create their ideal moments without any notion that it isn’t really possible. They can be anyone and do anything.

And I think it is interesting that when children are young, we would be asking questions like: “What do you want to be when you grow up?”

The replies would be as diverse as a policeman, a professional sportsperson, an astronaut or a dancer, and we would encourage them regardless of their answer.

Yet ask a child this same question when they are in high school, and we take a completely different opinion about their choices. We question the money they would make, their ability to succeed or tell them their dreams are not realistic.

We should be encouraging our children to reach for the stars. They should know that with dedication and hard work, they can achieve their dreams. Of course you are able to guide them with your own experiences, but do it in an encouraging way. Teach them things like the importance of setting smaller goals on their way to the top, but never tell them it will be impossible.

Because ultimately, one of the best gifts you can give a child is the encouragement to create the life of their dreams.