Negative employment news surrounds us all. Kids can't help but pick up on the anxiety and nervousness that many adults are feeling about their jobs in this turbulent economy.

But kids need to know things will change. By the time they are ready to enter the workforce, new companies, new industries and new technologies will be providing exciting opportunities for those smart enough to stay in school, stay the course and stay focused on developing important, universally prized career skills.

Adults need to keep kids excited about the world around them and the ways in which they can help shape and contribute to it. Whether it is through excellent communication skills; aptitude at math and science; strong leadership skills; uncommon organizational or language abilities;  a passion for the performing arts; or a compassionate need to help others, kids should feel good about the world needing their touch and talents when they grow up.

Just like every cloud has a silver lining, today's economy provides an upside too. Now more than ever, the world needs movers and shakers – ambitious and motivated professionals who want to solve problems, not add to them.  

School, home and youth group -based career exploration helps kids build self-esteem and self-confidence. It lessens their anxiety about the future. It also helps build powerful bonds between kids and those who help them feel good about themselves.

Like many of today's titans of industry, who, when they were kids pursued 'crazy' inventions in their parents' garages, there will be those who see a void, a problem or a challenge and light up at the thought of developing a solution to fix it.

Through creative career exploration, kids' curiosity and passion can be ignited and focused on valuable career pathing that will lead them through the marketable skills development they will need to pursue their dreams.

Opening kids' eyes to the big wide world of opportunities around them should not be put off until it's too late for kids to get the most out of their school years. Elementary and Middle Schools across the country are introducing career curriculum so kids can start to connect-the-dots between their school work, their interests and their goals.  Smart parents will support these activities so their kids have a competitive edge and start getting career wise now.  

Resources for stimulating and highly relevant career exploration are available at: www.GetCareerWise.com, on Amazon.com and through Kindle.