INVOLVEMENT from parents and families is crucial in ensuring children go on to further education or employment, say experts.
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Workforce demographer Lisa Denny urged Tasmanian parents to let go of the fear that their child may leave them.
"A lot of parents in Tasmania don't want their children to become educated because they have a fear they will leave the state," she said.
"There is this inherent fear that they will leave and not come home.
"Let them fly their wings and experience what they perceive to be greener pastures - the best thing for your children is that they get educated."
Ms Denny said it was important that conversations about future employment started early and suggested parents encourage reading and creative play.
"Let them be kids - read with them, share books, play board games and talk about what they want to be when they grow up," she said.
ORS regional manager Scott Whitters agreed: "Encourage and support them to be the best person that they can be."
Launceston College principal Keith Wenn said it was never too early or late for parents to discuss the future with their children.
"Parents should talk to their children about how important finishing year 12 will be to their future, as well as what they are interested in doing, what they are good at, and what they might want to do for a job."