When do you start talking about college?

What age do you start having conversations with your child about college and higher education?

One of the most difficult conversations I have with parents involves the promotion of higher education awareness. I find many parents, specifically those raised in a predominantly Western culture, have determined that college is extremely valuable. However, they have a tendency to delay talking about college with their students until the student hits the 8th or 9th grade; frankly, that's too late for many students.

Parents need to stress the importance of education--of all kinds--as early as possible. Children as young as 2 or 3 should be exposed to education and career opportunities. Parents can visit their local colleges and simply walk the campus, visit the college library or attend functions on campus (music, art or dramatic presentations or sporting events). Children should be exposed to as many people with higher education as possible as they tend to live by example. Introduce them to teachers, lawyers, doctors, engineers, pharmacists, etc. and advise them regarding the education needed required to work in these fields (yes, keep it simple when they're little).

The earlier you start, the less likely you'll have opposition from your child on this topic later. The more you know, the better prepared you are (or your child will be) to make an informed and involved decision.

Until next time!

Lynn Byrne