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My 12 y/o son has expressed an interest in architecture- building Rollercoasters. What are realstic options?

Public Comments

1. he is old enough to learn something about the requirements to become a architect and realistic job opportunities - and to learn that most work is mundane
2. Nurture his interests! Lots of kids have somewhat unrealistic ideas of what they want to do when they get older. In fact, I would say that a lot of adults have the same problem. Still, that doesn't mean you should just brush off what he wants to do at this very moment. If something has his interest in a good way, embrace it. Help him learn about architecture and engineering. Maybe get some books from the library or take him around to observe how different structures are built. There are various toys that might also be beneficial, such as Legos or Erector Sets. Growing up, I wanted to do all sorts of things. I wanted to be a geologist at one point, and then an astronomer at another. Now, I'm a biology major! Interests change, but a person can still learn great things if those lofty career aspirations are nurtured, even goals of being a rollercoaster builder.
3. Roller coster design is more structural engineering, maths and physics to prepare! He has a while to go!!!!
4. Absolutely encourage him to excel. But as a parent, you need to honestly critique his skills, intelligence level, ability to focus, etc and direct and guide him towards what he is best suited for in life. Too many parents want the "best" for their kid and instead of giving sound advice, they allow the child to continue towards a goal that is unattainable for them. Then the child gets hit with reality and ends up flipping burgers. The worst thing a kid can do is spend 4 or more years in college trying to become something they are not suited for. If your child has shown the early signs, not fascination, of being a person who enjoys the construction, design, and implementation of engineering, then by all means keep them on the path. But if not, find what they do seem to be geared for, and gently direct them to that goal. We need police officers, doctors, managers, vets, etc just as bad as we need engineers. You have to enjoy what you do in order to enjoy life.