What do your students want to be when they grow up? Using career exploration books for kids will help! An important skill for students to learn is how to identify their strengths and interests, which will someday lead to a career that they will love. By starting early, students become aware of what their future job might hold.
Here are some great picture books to help students think about a career that they might be interested in.
Career Exploration Books for Kids
When I Grow Up – Al Yankovic
This one is a silly book, but it will definitely get your students thinking creatively about their future! Billy’s class is discussing what they want to be when they grow up and he has a whole list of ideas – each career more outlandish than the last!
What Do You Do with an Idea? – Kobi Yamada
Yamada’s book isn’t specifically about careers, however, it does share that one small idea can become something amazing. It will teach students the power of being creative and importance of perseverance.
What Shoes Will You Wear? – Julia Cook
“There’s a job for every personality!” Spark children’s imaginations by determining what they enjoy and how that could turn into a career.
Who Will I Be? – Abby Huntsman
Huntsman’s book will get students thinking more about the root of a career – how they want to help others and provide for their community.
Career Day – Anne Rockwell
Career Day is a wonderful book for the preschool/kindergarten age. Each student in the class brings a special visitor, who explains their job and the work that they do.
Careers: The Graphic Guide to Planning Your Future
This one is not a read-aloud, but it has a lot of great information in it! This book would be great for upper elementary and middle school students. It allows them to start with their interests and find relevant careers from there.
Also, be sure to give students the opportunity to preview picture books about specific careers as well. Peruse your school or local library to find books for kids about different jobs. Are they interested in being an astronaut, fashion designer or author? Picture books will spark ideas and get students thinking about what interests them!
Career Exploration Activities
To build upon these read-alouds, use career exploration activities to help students really dive deep into what their future holds!
1. Career Interest Inventory
Start by having students identify their favorite subjects in school and hobbies at home. This will guide them towards a future job that will interest them! A career interest inventory is a great tool to use.
2. Job Application & Resume
Having students write up a job application and resume will help them understand how important their current experiences are. When students fill out this resume and job application have them use their classroom jobs and school awards!
3.Job Interview
This is students’ favorite part! Once they’ve identified the career that might interest them, have them go on an interview in front of their peers. They will dress for the part and students (or the teacher) will ask them interview questions. So neat!
