“Why I Wish I Had The DREAM Workbook Growing Up”
(Written from a parent POV)
When I first opened The DREAM Workbook, I wasn’t expecting to feel emotional. I thought it was just another kids’ activity book. But as I turned the pages and read the questions, the prompts, and the encouragement written in child-friendly language, something clicked — this was the workbook I wish I had when I was a kid.
Looking back, I had ideas. I was full of energy, creativity, and curiosity — always thinking of little ways to “make money” or start something of my own. But I never had the tools, the guidance, or even the belief that I could turn those ideas into something real. Business and money talk were for adults. It wasn’t something we ever learned at school, and it definitely wasn’t something I saw kids doing.
That’s why The DREAM Workbook feels so powerful to me now, as a parent.
It Teaches What School Often Doesn’t
Let’s be honest — most schools don’t teach financial literacy or entrepreneurship in a practical, hands-on way. I didn’t learn how to budget, price something, or even what “profit” meant until I was in my twenties and already learning the hard way. I look at my child working through this workbook, understanding the basics of money, learning how to build a brand, and planning their own little business idea — and I’m honestly blown away.
It Encourages Confidence and Creativity
So many of us grew up doubting ourselves. We were told to “be realistic,” to get a safe job, to follow the standard path. But The DREAM Workbook teaches kids the opposite — that their ideas matter. That their voice has value. That their creativity isn’t just a hobby; it could be the foundation of something amazing.
Watching my child light up when they come up with a business idea, draw their logo, or set a goal is something I wish I had experienced myself at that age.
It Normalises Failing and Learning
Another thing I love? This workbook doesn’t sugar-coat the process. It talks about challenges, setbacks, and trying again. It teaches tamariki that failing isn’t the end — it’s part of the journey. I wish I had learned that earlier. Maybe I wouldn’t have been so afraid to take risks or speak up with my ideas as a teen.
It Makes Big Concepts Understandable for Little Minds
What blew me away is how The DREAM Workbook breaks down concepts like branding, budgeting, planning, and customer service into simple, relatable activities. My child doesn’t just memorise definitions — they apply them. And as they work through it, they start seeing the world differently. They notice businesses. They ask questions. They think about solutions. It’s amazing to witness.
It Plants Seeds for a Brighter Future
If I had this workbook growing up, I know I would have felt more empowered. More equipped. Less afraid to dream big.
And maybe that’s what this is really about — not just giving our kids a head start, but giving them what we never had: the belief that they can create their own path. That their ideas are worthy. That success isn’t just for “other people” — it’s for them, too.
Final Thoughts
As a parent, I can’t go back and change my childhood. But I can give my child the tools I wish I had — and The DREAM Workbook is one of those tools.
It’s more than a workbook. It’s a mindset shift. It’s a guide. It’s a quiet voice on the page saying: You can do this.
And I’m so glad my child gets to hear that voice — now, when it matters most.
