Page 17 - IFV September Issue 2025

Today’s Child

Europe is a popular choice, especially Great for: Kids with academic How to Know If Your Child’s a
the Netherlands and Germany. Most interest but no clear major in mind – Good Candidate for a Gap Year
agencies require a police clearance and and families willing to invest in the They’re not ready to commit to a
basic childcare experience. experience. course or career yet.
Great for: Independent teens who They have the maturity to make the
love kids and want to live abroad Summer Camp uSA (or Canada) year count.
without blowing their life savings. Your teen becomes a camp counsellor, They’re motivated to do something –
runs activities, supervises kids, and earns even if they’re not sure what.
Cruise Ships & Superyachts a stipend. Flights and accommodation They need time to build confidence,
This is proper work – long hours, tight are often covered. Camps vary wildly – independence, or life skills.
quarters, and zero room for laziness. from lakeside outdoorsy ones to more And above all – they’re willing to work
But it pays well, includes international specialised creative programmes. Some through the discomfort of not having it
travel, and builds real work ethic. Teens agencies include Camp Leaders and USA all figured out. Because that’s the real
need specific safety training (STCW) Summer Camp. growth.
and usually start in entry-level roles like Great for: Sociable teens who want
deckhand or steward/stewardess. an overseas adventure and don’t mind About the Author
Great for: Adventurous, disciplined shouting “eyes on me!” twenty times a Nicola Killops is a curriculum designer,
teens who want to earn while seeing the day. education consultant, and neurodiversity
world – and don’t mind cleaning things. specialist based in South Africa. She
The point isn’t the programme – works with families, schools, and teachers
Study Abroad / Short Courses it’s the purpose. to support gifted, ADHD, and twice-
Not a full degree, but enough to keep Gap years can be game-changers if exceptional learners – helping each child
the brain busy. Some do language they’re treated like an investment, not find the path that fits them, not the system.
immersion in Spain or Japan; others an escape plan. That doesn’t mean every She is the founder of NeuroParenting
take creative short courses in London or day needs to be productive. But there Hub, where she offers personalised tools,
Amsterdam. These are good for curious should be a sense of momentum – a resources, and real-talk support for
kids who want to keep learning but thread your teen can trace back later and parents navigating complex learning
aren’t ready for university just yet. say, “That’s when I grew up a bit.” journeys.

The Villager • September 2025 • 15