Are you hoping your child will go to a top college in four years? Now is the time to help them make choices about classes, activities, summer jobs and more. Be sure to consider the following:

• Can they handle a class schedule loaded with advanced courses?
• What special interests do they have now that they can deepen their involvement in all throughout high school?
• In what way can they be a leader?
• Who is it that really wants them to attend a top school? Although you may have strong hopes for their future, gently remind them that their self-worth isn’t tied to admission.

Know the school

If you have an idea of what schools your child might want to attend, research the admissions policies. Knowing early helps you both make important choices. Consider these tips if the college emphasizes:

• GPA and class rank: If helps if your child works to get A’s, but the schedule may not have to be loaded with advanced classes.  A lower grade in an advanced class may weigh as much as an "A" in a standard class and lead to a higher class rank.
• Advanced classes: It’s better to take several advanced classes, even if the grades are a little lower. Look into local college summer classes that your child can take.
• SAT scores: Consider an SAT preparation course. You can also start early by teaching your family a new vocabulary word each night at the dinner table.
• Well-roundedness: Encourage your child to volunteer in the community. They should also pursue a few interests in depth over the next four years. Iit’s better to show depth in a few interests rather than just a semester or two in dozens of clubs and sports.
• Letters of recommendation: Help your child identify adults who can write recommendations for them.

A bit more advice

You know your child. If you believe they can handle the work preparing for a top college, then try whatever strategies suit all of you.

High school students all face the pressure that comes with being teens. Your child may be gifted academically, but they are still a teenager. They still need to play, test their boundaries and relax. Their life doesn't hinge on acceptance to a certain school, but they may not be mature enough to see that, even at 18. Help them. Over the next four years, lots of meaningful, loving talks with you at the dinner table might be the best college preparation your child could ever hope for.

Are you hoping your child will go to a top college in four years? Now is the time to help them make choices about classes, activities, summer jobs and more. Be sure to consider the following:

• Can they handle a class schedule loaded with advanced courses?
• What special interests do they have now that they can deepen their involvement in all throughout high school?
• In what way can they be a leader?
• Who is it that really wants them to attend a top school? Although you may have strong hopes for their future, gently remind them that their self-worth isn’t tied to admission.

Know the school

If you have an idea of what schools your child might want to attend, research the admissions policies. Knowing early helps you both make important choices. Consider these tips if the college emphasizes:

• GPA and class rank: If helps if your child works to get A’s, but the schedule may not have to be loaded with advanced classes.  A lower grade in an advanced class may weigh as much as an "A" in a standard class and lead to a higher class rank.
• Advanced classes: It’s better to take several advanced classes, even if the grades are a little lower. Look into local college summer classes that your child can take.
• SAT scores: Consider an SAT preparation course. You can also start early by teaching your family a new vocabulary word each night at the dinner table.
• Well-roundedness: Encourage your child to volunteer in the community. They should also pursue a few interests in depth over the next four years. Iit’s better to show depth in a few interests rather than just a semester or two in dozens of clubs and sports.
• Letters of recommendation: Help your child identify adults who can write recommendations for them.

A bit more advice

You know your child. If you believe they can handle the work preparing for a top college, then try whatever strategies suit all of you.

High school students all face the pressure that comes with being teens. Your child may be gifted academically, but they are still a teenager. They still need to play, test their boundaries and relax. Their life doesn't hinge on acceptance to a certain school, but they may not be mature enough to see that, even at 18. Help them. Over the next four years, lots of meaningful, loving talks with you at the dinner table might be the best college preparation your child could ever hope for.