Our Initiative
SC Career Kids provides opportunities for ALL children to explore careers through interactive experiences where students engage and build relationships with skilled experts. Our mission is to begin career exploration at a formative age so that South Carolina’s future leaders and future workforce are exposed to future opportunities right here in the Palmetto State.
“Children are the Priority. Change is the Reality. Collaboration is the Strategy.”
Judith Billings, Washington State Superintendent
Our Purpose
“Critical needs” jobs account for 45% of today’s workforce, yet only 29% of people have the necessary skills to fill these jobs. The need is tremendous. The overwhelming consensus among South Carolina employers is that too many of our state’s graduates lack critical thinking skills and the ability to communicate effectively, solve problems creatively, work collaboratively and adapt to changing priorities. SC Career Kids is committed to evolving our career ecosystem. We value connecting the state of South Carolina, local communities, educators, and industry to cultivate our children to grow a more robust workforce. We believe that partnerships within our community are essential to when, where, and how children learn and develop.
Early exposure to the work world provides opportunities for students to cultivate connections with career experts outside their family circle and learn by doing in real-world situations. These opportunities are critical to ensure that as children grow older, they can make informed decisions about their future career pathways.
Together we must build awareness and excitement about the possibilities yet to come for our children while nurturing the development of the four C’s – critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and creativity.
Soft Skills & Work Readiness
Soft skills, also known as interpersonal or people skills, are increasingly recognized as essential for success in today’s workforce. While technical skills are important, employers also value candidates who possess strong communication, teamwork, problem-solving, adaptability, and leadership skills.
Work readiness encompasses a range of skills, knowledge, and behaviors that prepare individuals for employment. This includes understanding workplace norms, professionalism, time management, and the ability to work effectively in diverse environments.
Employers often prioritize candidates who not only have the necessary technical qualifications but also demonstrate strong soft skills and work readiness, as these attributes contribute to a positive work environment, enhanced productivity, and overall organizational success.
Incorporating Soft Skills and Work Readiness into SC Career Kids Program:
SC Career Kids recognizes the importance of soft skills and work readiness in preparing children for future career opportunities. Here’s how these skills are incorporated into the program:
Soft skills, also known as interpersonal or people skills, are increasingly recognized as essential for success in today’s workforce. While technical skills are important, employers also value candidates who possess strong communication, teamwork, problem-solving, adaptability, and leadership skills.
Work readiness encompasses a range of skills, knowledge, and behaviors that prepare individuals for employment. This includes understanding workplace norms, professionalism, time management, and the ability to work effectively in diverse environments.
Employers often prioritize candidates who not only have the necessary technical qualifications but also demonstrate strong soft skills and work readiness, as these attributes contribute to a positive work environment, enhanced productivity, and overall organizational success.
SC Career Kids recognizes the importance of soft skills and work readiness in preparing children for future career opportunities. Here’s how these skills are incorporated into the program:
- Hands-On Activities: SC Career Kids offers hands-on activities and workshops that encourage children to collaborate, communicate, and problem-solve. These activities simulate real-world scenarios and promote the development of soft skills such as teamwork, communication, and critical thinking.
- Role-Playing Exercises: Role-playing exercises help children practice professional behaviors and interpersonal skills in a safe and supportive environment. Through scenarios like mock interviews or team projects, children learn how to effectively communicate, collaborate, and resolve conflicts.
- Guest Speakers and Mentors: SC Career Kids invites guest speakers and mentors from various industries to share their experiences and insights with children. These interactions provide valuable opportunities for children to learn about different careers, ask questions, and develop professional relationships.
- Career Exploration Workshops: Workshops on career exploration and readiness cover topics such as resume writing, job interviews, workplace etiquette, and time management. These workshops equip children with the skills and knowledge they need to navigate the job market successfully in the future.
- Experiential Learning: SC Career Kids emphasizes experiential learning opportunities that allow children to apply their knowledge and skills in real-world settings. Whether through internships, job shadowing, or community service projects, these experiences help children develop a deeper understanding of workplace dynamics and expectations.
By incorporating soft skills and work readiness into its program, SC Career Kids prepares children not only for future career opportunities but also for success in all aspects of their lives. Through hands-on activities, role-playing exercises, guest speakers, and career exploration workshops, SC Career Kids empowers children with the skills and confidence they need to thrive in a rapidly evolving workforce.
“My child has grown so much through SC Career Kids. They’re learning skills that will benefit them for life.”
SC Career Kids Parent
