So, how do you start preparing for your child’s education today? Here are 5 simple steps:
A great resource for detailed information and research on this subject is available through the USAA Educational Foundation. In addition to healthy habits, they offer many additional suggestions that can assist you in preparing your child for college. Don’t miss out on what they have available.
Prepare financially. It is never too early to begin saving for
college expenses. A 529 College Savings
Plan can be a great way to start, but it’s certainly not the only option. You can learn more about 529 Savings Plans
through the Utah Educational Savings Plan website.
Financial
literacy. The old adage is true: a dollar saved is a
dollar earned. And in all reality, a
dollar saved is better than a dollar earned.
What are we doing to actually teach our youngsters about financial
literacy? Start early, whereas the
consequences of learning this lesson later in life can be difficult to overcome
and detrimental to future financial security.
Social
maturity. You would think this
doesn’t need to be mentioned. But from
working with young adults and high school/college students, I have quickly
discovered that the art of communication isn’t as strong as it should be. Time away from video games, texting, and
social media is very important. Time
with family, friends, adults, community service, and healthy recreational
activities is vital.
Academics.
Studying skills should be reinforced
in the home. Critical thinking is
crucial in the competitive world we live in.
As children grow and become young adults, they need to create the habit
of forming ideas, evaluating information, and being able to make an educated
and informed decision. To help in this
process, many students will have the option of taking concurrent (dual)
enrollment in high school, or AP exams.
Before jumping into these decisions, call 3-4 universities/colleges and
ask the tough questions. Determine if
these options are best suited for your child and their continued education.
Healthy habits. Whether it involves eating,
sleeping, exercise, or a variety of other activities, living a healthy
lifestyle is beneficial for everyone.
Limiting television, increasing community service, maintaining a
balanced diet, getting regular exercise, and allowing ourselves to sleep and
rest are all good ways to help establish healthy habits. Unfortunately, this takes years to
learn. The early it is taught and
reinforced, the better.
These 5 simple suggestions are
exactly that. They are simple. And they are just suggestions. But they are suggestions that will create an
opportunity for success and continued growth.
A great resource for detailed information and research on this subject is
available through the USAA
Educational Foundation. In addition
to healthy habits, they offer many additional suggestions that can assist you
in preparing your child for college. Don’t miss out on what they have
available.
Written by Craig Whyte
