The Role of Parents in Early College Awareness

Studies show that children whose parents take an active role in their education tend to do better in school. Parents who show their children that they value education will see increased interest and desire. Also, parents who reinforce the importance of going to college in relationship to their child achieving personal, career and life goals, help them make the connection between college and their future success. As the child grows, his or her expectations and goals will include going to college and beyond. And remember that college can be affordable and its rewards are priceless.

As early as kindergarten and as late as senior year in high school, a key message to convey to children is that college is possible. You can help the future college graduates you know start planning for their college education with these helpful tips:

Middle School & Before
Parents of younger children may find it premature to plan for college at an early age; however, college preparation is simply the productive daily routine that a student is actively involved in. Study habits develop at an early age. While a student’s motivation is a key factor in establishing good study habits, parents and teachers can give positive reinforcement. It is important to establish a routine that the student is comfortable with. Whether it takes place immediately following school or after dinner before his/her favorite television show, a school-friendly, quiet environment is necessary. Parents should create a space for homework and provide appropriate materials for a successful completion of their child’s assignment. By establishing a structured routine, children will learn responsibility and good study skills that will stay with them throughout their education. 

Junior High
As students continue perfecting their study habits, now is the time for them to discover themselves, their personality, preferences, interests and abilities. Encourage children to think about what subjects they enjoy or have excelled at. Ask them, “What are you good at and what do you like to do?” By prompting them with this question, they will begin to see the value of planning ahead and will appreciate your interest in helping them to make a plan for life after high school.

High School
Unfortunately, the typical high school student does not even begin to think about their options for college until the junior year. By this point, they have already completed half of their high school career and have created their personal profile without even realizing it. While it certainly is never too late to begin your college search, students and parents cannot begin early enough to prepare for life beyond high school. In the beginning of high school, most students’ classes will be chosen for them, but it is still important to understand how grades and participation can affect opportunities after high school. A student’s high school transcript is a very important piece of information that colleges will look at down the road. Grades are forever imprinted on the high school transcript. By working to capacity in these early classes, students will prepare themselves for more advanced course work in the future.

High school is also the time for a student to engage in activities related to their interests. Colleges not only look at classroom progress, but they are also interested to see how involved students are in extracurricular activities and student groups. As students move toward the end of their high school careers, many find it helpful to create a “college calendar” that will highlight college deadlines and important dates.

[Preparing Your Child]