It may not be tomorrow, it may not be next year, it may not be for another decade down the line. However, if you are hoping that your child gets into college and educates themselves for a successful life and career beyond, there are things that you can start doing right now to prepare for it. Here, we’re going to look at how you can start laying the foundation for a successful further education.
Talk About Future Goals
Planning for college doesn’t start the year before your child departs. The sooner you start having open conversations, the better. Ask your child what they enjoy learning, what careers interest them, or what kind of lifestyle they envision. These talks don’t have to feel like their final answer, but can help you get an idea of your kid’s passions and start exploring the educational paths that best lead to them, such as potential schools and extra educational costs.
Build Up Their Extracurriculars
When applying for colleges, especially the more competitive ones, it’s important to note that they look beyond your child’s grades alone. Activities outside the classroom, from music to sports to coding clubs to volunteering, are important. They also build confidence, discipline, teamwork, and leadership skills that help your child succeed in any environment. Encourage participation in a few well-chosen activities that match your child’s interests. Aside from strengthening their scholarship applications later, they can help them develop a sense of direction and grow as a more well-rounded person who is more likely to do well in college.
Start Saving Early
Aside from getting ready as a college applicant, it’s important that you get ready for the costs that come with the transition to post-secondary education. You should look at the financial aid options available and how you can best position yourself to receive them, but you can play an active role by saving in an RESP, as well. Not only are contributions tax-sheltered, but the government will match 20% of your contributions (up to $500 annually). Even modest monthly deposits can grow significantly over 10–15 years. It also teaches the concept of future planning to your child early.
Build A More Independent Child
If you intend for your child to be out of the home, pursuing their education at the first opportunity, then as they grow, you should look for opportunities to help them learn the skills they need as well. When they leave for college, they should know how to cook, clean, and take care of themselves and their own space. You should also focus on building financial literacy, ensuring that they’re able to make the best use of their money through budgeting and saving. It’s likely they’ll still need some help and pointers once they’re out of the home, but you should make sure that living independently isn’t a baffling challenge at least.
Of course, your child’s own aspirations and wants are going to play a key role in determining the course of their future. The tips above can help you get the conversation started, however, and ensure you’re on the same page and doing your best to get ready for it.
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