With the adoption of the Common Core, much of education is geared toward readying students for post-secondary education. While preparation time at school is incredibly useful, parents can also help kids get ready for college by taking some steps at home. Here are a few tips:
Start early
The University of California San Diego Director of Admissions Mae Brown told Forbes that students should begin preparations for college in sixth grade. Why so early? The next seven years of middle and high school allow students to boost their IQs, leadership intelligence and emotional quotient. All of these qualities add up to a well-rounded individual who can tackle both the intellectually challenging aspects of college and the social side of becoming an independent young adult.
Encourage extracurricular activities
College admittance is not just based on a student's grades. Your children can expand their potential colleges with full resumes of extracurricular activities. Partaking in sports and clubs shows commitment and time-management skills. U.S. News and World Report shared that freshmen in high school should explore their options and follow their passions to find clubs and activities. As sophomores, students can narrow down their choices by getting involved in fewer activities but focusing and fully committing to each one.
Juniors should consider taking on part-time jobs as this is considered an extracurricular activity, and it looks great on college applications. Once students are seniors, they can ask leaders from their after-school activities or jobs to write letters of recommendation which they can send to potential colleges. These notes can make a world of difference in whether a college admits a student.
Prepare for standardized testing
Standardized tests like the Common Core State Standards help gauge students' learning and establish if they are ready for college-level courses. You can help your children prepare for these tests by assisting them with homework, making sure they turn everything in on time and working on math and reading at home. These are two of the most important subjects on most standardized tests, and you can assist your children by reading together and checking their math homework. If you aren't sure on a subject or think your kids may need extra help, consider hiring a tutor who is well-versed in the particular topic and can offer useful advice. Higher scores on these tests are indications your child is intellectually prepared for college.
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