College Readiness Redux

I’ve written about “soft” or non-cognitive skills on this blog previously and I’m often emphasizing their importance to my advisees as they are challenged by managing their increasingly complex schedules while completing college applications.  Actually, completing the college application process is a good “test” or practice for adolescents in developing responsibility, time management, resilience and self-advocacy, all skills students need to function independently in college.

Recently, the New York Times published another piece, “How to Help a Teenager be College-Ready” on helping your child the skills and qualities needed to live independently and function as a successful student.  It focuses on three areas: self-care, academics and administrative tasks.  Among its recommendations are to allow students to manage their own calendar and deadlines.  I echo this encouragement in asking parents to allow students to make their own appointments with me and follow up on tasks without parental reminders.

Here are links to previous posts I’ve made on the same/similar topic:

College Readiness: Beyond the high school transcript

“Testing” a new relationship with your high school senior—toward adult autonomy

How to Raise an Adult--new book vital for parents of teens. . .and younger

It’s a lot about our “letting go” as parents, isn’t it?  Good luck!