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In this age of so-called "helicopter" parenting and academic "red shirting" of kindergartners, it's clear that some parents will do anything to help their kids thrive. The problem is that many kids, particularly stubborn teenagers, pull away from parents when they become too involved. Sometimes even the subtlest guidance can send them in the opposite direction. If you can't even get your son to put his laundry in the basket, how are you supposed to get help him get into a good college? How do parents foster and support their child's college aspirations without becoming too involved or overbearing?

Straddling the Divide: How to Help Your Child Get Into College

The following are seven things you can do to help prepare your kids for college (and help them look good in the eyes of admissions counselors). It's not uncommon for some kids to resist your help. That's okay -- it's normal. Take it as a cue that it's time to sit down and talk about the future. Listen to your child and keep an open mind. Just remember when all is said and done that you are a parent first, not a friend, and it's your responsibility to provide direction -- even when they don't want any. Here's how:

1. Help your child study for the SAT or ACT. Standardized tests measure your child's knowledge -- not their intelligence -- so scores improve with practice. SAT preparation software, books, and even tutors can give your child the test-taking savvy (and confidence) needed to score well.
2. Provide academic support. Grade point averages are an important factor in college admissions. Know how your child is faring in his classes and address potential problems before it's too late. Help with homework, meet with teachers, and hire tutors when necessary.
3. Encourage extra-curricular activities. Admissions counselors love kids who are involved in their schools and communities. If your kid is too "cool" to be on the football team or in drama club, help them come up with other activities, like planting tree, lending a hand at the local food bank, or teaching a disadvantaged child to play the guitar.
4. Remember that fun is important, too. If the college admissions process is stressful for you, it's doubly so for your child. Schedule some fun family time to help prevent burnout.
5. Go on a college tour -- or six. Tour colleges of all types to give her a glimpse into college life, not to mention a swift reminder that she won't be in high school (or your basement) forever.
6. Emphasize the value of a college education. It's important to remind even the most aloof students that success takes work, and in many cases, that means getting a college education. They may roll their eyes, but that doesn't mean they don't hear you.
7. Know when to back off. One of the most parts of being a parent is nurturing independence by just letting go sometimes. Some kids really do fare better when they feel like they have some control over their futures.

Helping your student get into college is a great time to start letting your son or daughter take the reigns -- after all, once your child is in college, you won't be there to oversee study time or make sure the laundry gets done each week. Show your child now that you trust her with big decisions, and she'll likely rise to the occasion.

Read about the WORST ways to help your student get into college.