a kid’s primary interest is in socializing with friends, encourage that interest and help him see how it will serve him professionally one day—he might have a fulfilling career as a teacher, psychologist, negotiator, lawyer, or sales director. But also tell him that most careers that place a strong emphasis on interpersonal skills require at least a bachelor’s degree, and in many cases a graduate degree. So if he wants to interact with others for a living in a meaningful way, he’ll have to learn to work hard to develop his academic capabilities.
