My City May 2022

3. Teach goal attain ment. If they are interested in getting a head start on college, help them enroll in AP classes or early programs that are offered. Work with them on gain ing the correct amount of high school credits and how to plan ahead. For financial goals, help them apply for scholarships and other funding that they may need. Help them to plan for and meet applica tion and testing deadlines. 4. Have the “college talk.” Many feel that this is the hardest thing to do; but when they are ready to go, make sure

PARENT DON’TS

you address the topics of drugs, alcohol, sex and how to be responsible when deal ing with all three. ey will see, hear about and be ex posed to all three when they are on their own – pretend ing they will not is foolish. is may be your last chance to assure them that you will be there for them if needed. 5. Guide them through the process, then let them go. Help them choose a school, get them enrolled, move them into their new surroundings and support them.ey are adults, let them handle it from here. However, it’s okay to call them every week (every day, not-so-much).

We all want what’s best for our children, but going too far can do more harm than good. 1. Don’t ƒll out your child’s applications, write their resume or essays. By all means take a look and edit, but don’t take over.ey need to learn. 2. Don’t choose their college or course of study for them. If they don’t want to go to your alma mater, let it be. Help them choose a place and profession that is best for them. 3. Don’t dissuade from an interest. If your child wants to work in a profession you don’t under stand or undervalue, never guilt them into choos ing something else; instead, work to learn about their interest and help them pursue it. 4. Don’t be a helicopter parent. Your role is now to support. It is inevitable that they will make mistakes; when it happens, help them to learn from and grow through it. Let them live their life! ®

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