[hrktb]

I think it can be less subtle than that. For instance a piano solist will 'test' children inclinement to play music, or more directly to play piano. I know other engineers who also expose their kids to programming like games to see if there is potential.

It doesn't mean the trade will be passed down as is, but if a kid seems predisposed for a field, the parent with expertise will help it grow further as long as the kid enjoys it.