Parent Talk

Each week, our Parents Council of experts takes your questions, gives advice and shares solutions.

Moms, dads, grandparents and the diverse families who make up our community will have a new resource for questions about local neighborhood schools, the best pediatricians, 24-hour pharmacies and the thousands of other issues that arise while raising children.

This week’s question is:

At what age should your children begin preparing for or thinking about college? And what are some things they can do during the summers to get ahead of the game?

Judy Vincent:

My daughter is in the first grade, but I'd say at the start of middle school when students have many different kinds of classes. I don't think it’s ever too early to prepare for the future. If at all possible, children should do some sort of academics in the summer to not lose what they've learned during the school year. Many camps and programs are incorporating academics and sports in their schedules.

Jacqueline Montgomery:

Little children have so many thoughts and ideas during play. Elementary school age children have aspirations. Encourage your child to explore opportunities that make them happy. Keep the dream of college in your own vocabulary as they grow up.

The United States Department of Education recommends that kids take algebra, science, English, history or geography every year as well as personal enrichment courses and sports.

This should start in elementary school, based on your child’s developmental needs and strengths. This will help your child to see college as a natural progression in their life.

Be your child’s advocate by helping them to research their own high school curriculum. It is a great idea to plan with your child the expectations of college and finances.

Summer learning loss is rampant. As a parent, research summer programs that have academics, enrichment and sports to keep your children ahead of the game. Teach your child about work ethic, financial responsibility and helping around the house and the community.