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For many teenagers, the next
step after high school is college. College is a different environment than high
school, as it offers your teen more independence and responsibility. Even if
your teen is living at home instead of a dorm, they are still going to be in
charge of their own school schedule.
You may be asking yourself “Is my teen ready for college?” The following guide
can help you and your teen determine if they are ready for this big step.
They Have Shown Independence
Your teen may be ready for college if they have already shown their
independence. This includes getting themselves up in the morning, making their
own lunch and doing their homework without being told. They may even take on
extra responsibilities around the house, such as the dishes and laundry.
If your teen is not as independent, or they are anxious about moving into a
dorm, they may not be ready for college just yet. You can help them to prepare
by giving them more responsibility, as this can help them to feel more
independent.
They Were Able To Fill Out The Applications
The college process includes filling out an application for schools and FAFSA.
Your teen should be able to fill these out with very little help from you. In
fact, it is best to step back and let your teen take this step on their own.
You should only help with the applications if they come to you for assistance.
If they are stressed out and looking for constant assistance with the
applications, they may have a tough time in college. Now, this does not mean
your teen should not attend college at all. It just means they need more time
to learn how to do certain tasks on their own.
They Received Good Grades In High School
If your teen received good grades in high school, they may not have a difficult
time in college. In fact, those grades may encourage them to work hard to
maintain their average in college. Teenagers with excellent grades may also be
eligible for scholarships.
A teen who struggles in high school may have a tough time in college, where the
school work becomes more difficult. However, practicing and tutoring can help
them prepare for this experience, and many colleges offer remedial classes to
sharpen their skills.
Talk To Your Teenager
A teen who approaches you about applying for college is more than likely ready
for this step. Their teachers may have already talked to them about college, or
they looked it up on their own. You can also ask your teen if they are ready
for college. Remember, after four years of high school, they may not be ready
to sit in another classroom this soon.
Teenagers who are not ready for college can still be productive. You can
encourage community service, an educational program, more responsibilities
around the house or a part-time job to keep them from slacking off.
College is a big step, so it is important to ensure your teen is ready before
they make the leap into the college life.