Spoiler alert: the answer is NEVER.
Exciting News!
The Table Talk Project is now officially a charity! This milestone means we can now apply for grants, accept donations, and offer tax-deductible receipts to our supporters. Charity status opens doors for collaborations with organisations that want to make a difference in families and communities.
This achievement brought back memories of the dream that started it all: creating The Table Talk Project (TTTP). There were many moments I wanted to give up. Whether it was the financial hurdles or the voices of doubt saying it wouldn’t work, the dream of TTTP often felt fragile. Yet every time I was on the verge of letting go, someone would step in with encouragement, support, or an opportunity.
It made me think: What dreams have you had? Did you ever feel like giving up on them? Or, like me, did you keep going?
Now, how do we navigate this conversation with our children? How do we talk about dreams, and is there ever a time to tell our kids, “That’s not going to happen?”
Supporting Our Children’s Dreams
The simple answer is that we don’t tell our children to give up on their dreams. Our role as parents is to champion their aspirations, even when those dreams seem impossible. Here’s how we can do that:
1. Listen First
The first step is to understand what their dreams are. Take time to ask open-ended questions like:
- “What’s something you’ve always wanted to do?”
- “What excites you about that dream?”
By listening with curiosity, you create a safe space where their dreams are valued.
2. Use the Dinner Table as a Dream Hub
Mealtime conversations are the perfect opportunity to talk about dreams—yours and theirs. Share stories about your own dreams, including the ones you pursued and the ones you let go of. Explain why some dreams changed and how those decisions shaped your life.
For example, I dreamed of becoming a musician, but over time, I realised my passion for connecting with people and building community was greater. Sharing these reflections helps kids understand that dreams can evolve without losing their importance.
3. Encourage Exploration and Growth
Dreams often feel daunting because we focus on the end goal rather than the steps to get there. Break it down with your child by discussing practical steps they can take.
- Want to be an astronaut? Start with a science project.
- Want to be an artist? Take a weekend workshop.
Every small step builds confidence and keeps the dream alive.
4. Be Their Cheerleader
Kids thrive on belief and encouragement. Let them know you’re in their corner. Watch their performances, attend their games, or sit through their endless Minecraft worlds. Your presence sends the message: I believe in you.
5. Normalise Failure as Part of the Journey
If their dream doesn’t work out, it’s not the end of the story. Let your children know that failing is part of learning and growing. The real gift is in the effort, the lessons learned, and the resilience built along the way.
What About Our Dreams as Parents?
Sharing your own dreams—fulfilled or not—with your children teaches them the value of dreaming big. Reflect on what inspired you to start and how you faced challenges. For me, starting TTTP was filled with obstacles:
- Financial constraints.
- Legal challenges.
- Voices telling me it couldn’t happen.
Yet, here we are—a registered charity with a growing impact on families.
When you share your story, your kids see that dreams take time, effort, and perseverance. They also learn that it’s okay for dreams to adapt and change based on life’s realities.
What Science Says About Supporting Dreams
Evidence shows that parental support significantly impacts a child’s ability to dream and achieve. A study by Frontiers in Psychology found that parents who encourage exploration and provide emotional support help children develop self-confidence and a growth mindset, which are crucial for pursuing dreams.
Similarly, a Harvard study on parenting revealed that quality family conversations enhance a child’s ability to articulate goals and build the resilience needed to pursue them. (Source: Frontiers in Psychology and Harvard Graduate School of Education)
Inspiring Words for Parents
In The Pursuit of Happyness, Chris Gardner tells his son:
“Don’t ever let someone tell you, you can’t do something. Not even me. You got a dream, you gotta protect it.”
Our children deserve parents who protect their dreams. With belief, support, and love, imagine what they can achieve. And even if the dream doesn’t materialise, your presence from start to finish will be the anchor they’ll always cherish.
So, as you gather around the dinner table tonight, ask your kids:
“What’s your biggest dream?”
And then share your own.
Because dreams aren’t just about the destination—they’re about the conversations, connections, and growth along the way.
Support The Table Talk Project
With our new charity status, TTTP is poised to make an even greater impact. Your support can help us champion family connections, stronger relationships, and better mental health. Let’s dream big together.
