Top 5 Things Parents Should Do to Help Their Kids Get Into College

As a parent, you want the best for your child, and that includes supporting them in their journey to college. The admissions process can be daunting, but with the right approach and guidance, you can help your child achieve their dreams.

Here are the top five things parents can do to help their kids get into college:

1. Foster a Love for Learning Early On

One of the most important things you can do as a parent is to instill a love for learning in your child from a young age. Encourage curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking. Create a positive and stimulating environment where learning is seen as enjoyable and rewarding. This can be achieved through:

• Reading together: Make reading a daily habit and explore a variety of genres and topics.
• Educational games and activities: Use puzzles, educational apps, and interactive games to make learning fun.
• Field trips: Visit museums, science centers, and historical sites to provide real-world learning experiences.

A genuine passion for learning will not only help your child excel academically but also make them stand out in their college applications.

2. Encourage Extracurricular Involvement

Colleges look for well-rounded students who are involved in extracurricular activities. Encourage your child to explore their interests and develop their talents outside the classroom. This could include:

• Sports: Joining a school sports team or community league.
• Arts: Participating in music, theater, or visual arts programs.
• Community service: Volunteering for local organizations or starting their own initiatives.
• Clubs and organizations: Joining or leading school clubs related to their interests.

Extracurricular activities demonstrate leadership, commitment, and the ability to balance multiple responsibilities, all of which are qualities colleges value.

3. Support Academic Excellence

Academic performance is a crucial factor in college admissions. Help your child achieve academic success by:

• Setting high expectations: Encourage your child to strive for excellence and set realistic but challenging academic goals.
• Providing resources: Ensure they have access to necessary study materials, tutoring, and academic support if needed.
• Creating a conducive study environment: Designate a quiet, organized space for studying and completing homework.
• Monitoring progress: Stay informed about their academic performance and communicate with teachers to address any concerns.

Your support and involvement in their education can significantly impact their academic achievements.

4. Plan and Prepare for Standardized Tests

Standardized tests like the SAT or ACT are an essential part of the college admissions process. Help your child prepare effectively by:

• Understanding the requirements: Research the test requirements of the colleges your child is interested in.
• Creating a study schedule: Develop a study plan that includes regular practice tests and review sessions.
• Using test prep resources: Utilize books, online courses, and tutoring services to provide structured test preparation.
• Encouraging practice: Regular practice can improve test-taking skills and reduce anxiety.

Proper preparation can help your child achieve competitive scores, enhancing their college applications.

5. Start the College Planning Process Early

College planning should start well before the senior year of high school. Help your child by:

• Researching colleges: Explore different colleges and programs to find the best fit for your child’s interests and goals.
• Visiting campuses: Arrange visits to campuses to get a feel for the environment and meet with admissions counselors.
• Understanding application requirements: Familiarize yourself with the application process, including deadlines, essays, and recommendation letters.
• Seeking guidance: Consider working with a college admissions consultant for expert advice and personalized guidance.

Starting early allows your child to approach the college admissions process with confidence and preparedness.

Helping your child get into college is a collaborative effort that requires time, dedication, and strategic planning. By fostering a love for learning, encouraging extracurricular involvement, supporting academic excellence, preparing for standardized tests, and starting the college planning process early, you can provide your child with the foundation they need to succeed in the college admissions journey.

At Ivy League Admissions, we are here to support you and your child every step of the way. Contact us today to learn more about our comprehensive college admissions consulting services and how we can help your child achieve their college dreams.