The right time for career counselling could vary with Individuals opinions and perspectives.Children as young as of the age 13 (In 9th Grade) to the ages 21 to 23 (Graduate) often request of career counselling appointments.
I believe the best age is when they are 15 years old i.e. when they are in their Grade 10. I recommend this age is because of the following observations:
- They are slightly more emotionally and mentally mature.
- They have advanced ‘subject’ knowledge of Science and Math.
- They begin to understand their personality and have an inkling about their aptitude, likes and dislikes.
- They can make better decisions and form better judgement.
- In grade 10, they can make a better decision of which stream (Science, Commerce, Arts) to select.
- Once their 10th Grade exams are over, they can focus on ‘Entrance Exams Preparation’ in their choice of career field. They get 2 years of preparation time.
- If children take Career guidance in their 11th or 12th Grades, they may or may not be in the career stream right for them. This could waste their valuable time and efforts.
- The longer one waits for career counselling, the more confused, dissatisfied, clueless or apprehensive one can get, as and when they grow.