Strategies for Parenting High Schoolers Through the College Process
We all have different styles of parenting. However, there are some strategies that can make the high school and college process easier for our children. Here are some tips.
Don’t start talking about college to your child too early in high school. Most schools do not offer much flexibility in courses for 9th and 10th grades, so students don’t need to think about college requirements yet. Also, talking about specific colleges with your child before you have a sense of their high school grades and other activities can give them unrealistic expectations.
Encourage your child to try different clubs and activities in 9th and 10th grade. Looking through a high school yearbook is a great way to show your new high schooler the different club and athletic options. Many schools also offer a club fair in the fall.
Make a tentative four-year academic plan with your child that covers the courses that they will take from 9th to 12th grade. If you think they will apply to selective colleges, keep in mind that many of those schools want to see four years of all the core subjects (English, history, math, science, and foreign language).
Understand the high school curriculum. For example, lab sciences are generally considered more rigorous than other types of science classes. Understand the options for honors and AP classes.
In the winter of 10th grade, start thinking about a standardized testing plan for your child. If there is a chance that they will want to sit for tests early in 11th grade, they should take a diagnostic ACT and/or SAT in the spring of 10th grade.
Consider volunteering as a family to give your child experience with community service.
Make a plan to visit colleges in 11th grade. Students often need help from parents to schedule trips for campus tours and information sessions. Do what works for your family, whether that is day trips or a week of vacation spent traveling to different colleges. College trips can be a fun way to spend time with your high schooler!
Listen to the advice of experts that you trust. Try not to pay too much attention to the general gossip.
The most stressful times of the college process for high schoolers and their parents tend to be standardized testing, completing applications, and waiting for decisions. Support your child during those times by making sure they have the things they need for standardized test prep and test days (including water, snacks, entry ticket, ID, etc.). Try not to overload them with other commitments in the fall of 12th grade while they are busy with school and applications. Plan some fun distractions while they wait to hear from colleges!
Have someone you can talk to about the ups and downs of the college process-whether a spouse, trusted friend, or relative.
Be sure to sign the Early Decision agreement if your child applies ED (colleges require this).
Celebrate any and every college acceptance! Students tend to downplay admissions to their likely schools. As parents, it is important to celebrate every success.
Once your child chooses a college to attend, join the parent’s Facebook group to stay up on college-specific information.
If you have questions or would like to learn more about college admissions, please visit Excelsioradmissions.com or click here to schedule a free 30-minute consultation to learn how I can help with your college admissions process.
