Coaching Children Toward Passion and Purpose: Lessons from the Gabrial Family
"What does it take to raise children who are not only high-achieving but also grounded, passionate, and purpose-driven? "
In Episode 7 of the Learning by Design podcast, Krishna Cart sits down with Helena Gabrial and her father, Charles Gabrial, to unpack their family's journey through education, values, and identity. This conversation highlights practical ways parents can coach—not control—their kids, helping them discover who they are and where they thrive.
The Shift from Parenting to Coaching
Charles Gabrial made a conscious choice early on: instead of traditional top-down parenting, he embraced a coaching role. "I'm your coach, your advisor. Not just your parent," he told his daughters. That shift created space for his kids to own their learning, their goals, and their decisions. It wasn’t about control—it was about equipping them.
Helena confirmed it worked. She described how being treated as a team member helped her build confidence, think critically, and communicate effectively. Charles encouraged independence but stayed close enough to offer real-time feedback.
Spotting Strengths Early On
One of the standout lessons was how attentive Charles and his wife were to the small, early signs of talent. Helena’s love for reading and analytical thinking led her toward health sciences and public service. Antonia's sharp math instincts and hands-on curiosity pointed to engineering and AI.
Instead of enforcing one path, the Gabrials watched, reflected, and adjusted. Gifted test prep through COGAT and NNAT helped bring those patterns into focus, and supplemental programs like Young Scholars Circle gave both girls a head start.
Setbacks as Redirection, Not Failure
Helena didn’t get into her first-choice high school programs: Academy of Science (AOS) and Academy of Engineering & Technology (AET). At the time, she was crushed. But that disappointment led her to the Monroe Advanced Technical Academy (MATA)—a program that ended up being a perfect fit for her interests in health and biotech.
Antonia, too, faced discouragement. Her elementary school initially recommended against placing her in advanced math, even though her test scores showed exceptional potential. Charles stepped in, got involved, and helped her train outside of school. That advocacy and preparation eventually led to her acceptance at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science & Technology (TJHSST).
Building More Than a Resume
Helena didn't just chase grades or awards. She built a deliberate campaign to become Student of the Year, tying academics with community service and self-advocacy. She got involved in volunteering, participated in mission trips, and competed in DECA.
Faith played a central role, too. The Gabrials made sure both daughters were grounded in scripture, character, and purpose. From Sunday school to the National Bible Bee, their spiritual life reinforced everything else.
Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it.
Proverbs 22:6, ESV
One verse that Charles quoted during the conversation stood out: “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.” (Proverbs 22:6, ESV).
This biblical principle became a guiding anchor in their parenting journey, reminding them to be intentional and spiritually rooted every step of the way.
Take-Aways for Parents
- Be a coach, not a manager.
- Watch for early signs of talent—even in everyday moments.
- Don’t let the school system be the final word. Advocate.
- Teach kids how to handle setbacks with perspective.
- Root them in values that go beyond academics.
The Gabrial family’s story reminds us that every child is uniquely wired—and they thrive when we create the right mix of freedom, guidance, and value. Whether navigating the gifted system, exploring passions outside of school, or grounding kids in faith and character, coaching children toward passion and purpose isn’t just possible—it’s powerful.
Listen to the full episode of Learning by Design with Krishna Cart to hear Helena and Charles Gabrial share their insights, stories, and lessons. If you're a parent, educator, or mentor, this conversation will leave you equipped and inspired.
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