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is with your spouse. Treat them like the adult they’re becoming by being honest and detailed with them about college costs. Dissect how much, if any, debt would need to be taken on and discuss what the implications of that debt are. Being on the same page about the realities of attending college is important for maintaining a healthy perspective and understanding. EVALUATE THE ACADEMICS. Your teen has likely already spent significant time exploring the academic opportunities different schools provide, but it doesn’t hurt for parents to do some research as well so they can contribute helpful insight when questions are asked. Help your child think through the breadth and depth of academic opportunities in ways they may not have considered. For example, remind them to think about extracurricular activities or study abroad opportunities. TALK ABOUT LOCATION. This has become a big point of discussion lately, as family priorities have been shifting for many. Recent studies show that more than 25% of high school students say that current world disruptions will play a factor in their decision to stay close to home or study afar, when location wasn’t previously a factor. No matter the location of the school your child chooses to attend, be supportive of that decision if it means your child will have the best college experience.
DON’T RUSH THE PROCESS. Decision deadlines exist so that schools can make sure students are properly enrolled with enough time to prepare for the coming semester, but now that safety measures have skewed the timelines, prospective students have been given more time to prepare. Even without the changing deadlines, this decision will affect the course of their future, so if deadlines are missed because decisions are still being made, then that’s okay. Rolling enrollment is an option too. In the end, the most important thing to remember is that it should be up to your teen to decide which college is the right one for them. This is the first step in a life full of decisions they will have to make on their own, so help them find the trust and confidence in themselves to build a life they’re proud of.
Make the Most of Rafting Season
And Enjoy a Day on the Water With These Tips
S ure, August doesn’t mark the official beginning of summer, celebrate our nation’s independence, or give us a three-day weekend. But it offers something just as great: the best time of the year to be on the river. For rafting enthusiasts, the warm and dry weather in August means water levels are lower, and rivers can be a bit tamer than earlier in the season. This also makes August the perfect time for new rafters to try the activity. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your day on the river.
only someone who knows how to expertly navigate rapids will be able to ensure you have an enjoyable, thrilling experience instead of a dangerous one.
PROTECT YOURSELF FROM THE SUN.
It might seem counterintuitive to wear anything other than a swimsuit on a hot day on the river, but in most cases, you’ll be exposed to full sun while on the water, so covering up is crucial to preventing sunburns. Opt for a hat, sunglasses, and materials that will dry quickly. Rashguards and button-down shirts make great top layers, and long skirts, longer shorts, or yoga pants on chillier days are all good options as well.
GOWITH AN EXPERIENCED GUIDE.
If you’re planning to tackle any type of whitewater, it’s crucial that you go with an experienced raft guide. Whitewater can be dangerous, and
BRING PLENTY OF WATER AND FOOD.
One of the many fun aspects of rafting is spending a day — or even multiple days — on the river. Make sure you bring plenty of reusable bottles filled with water for hydration. Depending on how long you’ll be gone, you may want to pack a meal or two along with plenty of snacks that are easy to eat on the river. Most rafts will have a dry box where you can store food and other items that need to remain moisture-free.
As you set out on the river, enjoy the solitude of connecting to nature away from the hubbub of the rest of the world.
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