Are your kids excited about the prospect of going to college? Today, having a college degree is even more important than it was a few generations ago, as having a degree is a key factor in employ-ability. In fact, a college degree can increase earning potential by as much as $500 per week! Yet for the kid who is nearing the end of his or her high school career, the thought of even more education may be daunting. Here are some tips to help keep our kids excited about college.
1. Create a Pro-College Culture Early On
Keeping kids excited about college begins when they are young. Talk about college in a positive way, and show your kids in your daily life that you appreciate education in general and college degrees specifically. Talk to your young child about what he or she wants to be as an adult, then encourage thinking about the education necessary to reach those goals, even if they are silly childish dreams in your mind. You never know what the future will hold!
2. Make College Visits Fun
As your children get older, make college visits part of your travel plans. Many colleges have performances, museums and interesting architecture that make them a great vacation destination. You can even catch a sporting event! While on campus, keep the conversation about college going, even if the college is not one that is really on your radar.
3. Create Goals with Teens
When your children are teenagers, talk about goals. Work together to figure out what educational path will help your child reach those goals. If your child does not have a career goal in mind yet, start looking at schools that meet other criteria, like location and general education programs.
4. Avoid Talking About Money
Kids pick up on adult concerns easily. If money is a concern, don’t bring it up. You don’t want your child to stop thinking about college because of a false belief in that you can’t afford it. You can find a number of financial aid options when the time comes.
Remember, your child needs your encouragement to feel excited about college. For many kids, especially those who don’t gravitate towards education in general, the thought of college can overwhelm. Keep the conversation going, and keep it positive, and you can foster a sense of excitement in your kids about this important step. The team of Charlotte tutors at Swan Learning Center are also here to help!
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