I have written about college preparation and study hints for high school-age students in past columns. My wife, Kate, a longtime elementary teacher, suggested that these topics aimed toward elementary age students and their parents would be valuable. As usual, she is right.

Students need a specific place to study. They need a place free from distractions such as television, radio, Xbox, etc. The study space should be quiet during study time. The space should also be one that can be supervised by a parent so that encouragement and help can be available.

The study space needs to have the necessary supplies. A dictionary, paper, pencils, pens, crayons, stapler, ruler, scissors and calculator are some of the necessary supplies.

Students need to have a consistent time each day to study. Maybe it is right after school, or just after dinner or another time that fits into the family's activities. A consistent routine will help a child form the habit of studying daily. However, some parents have irregular work hours that make establishing a study time at a particular hour difficult. In that case, establish an amount of time each day for studying.

The question will arise of what to do on days when there is no homework. Should my child study or take the day off? There is always a profitable way for the student to use the designated study time. He could read a book silently, read aloud to the parent while the parent is cooking dinner, practice multiplication facts, or write in a journal to mention a few of the possibilities. The ability to read well is one of the best indicators of success in college. The other basic skills of writing and math are also strong indicators. The time spent practicing those skills is always worthwhile.

Learning to use a planner is a valuable habit to develop. Writing assignments and due dates, test dates and personal engagements in a planner can be started in fourth grade or even earlier. Many teachers have their students write in planners. If students' teachers don't require planners, then parents can establish their use. A planner is an excellent tool for keeping organized that will help students throughout their lives.

Another important part of college preparation is saving money for college. Most families won't be able to save enough to cover the entire cost of their children's education. However, with long-range planning, the family and the student can make significant progress and minimize the amount of debt a student accumulates while completing college.

One effective way to save for educational expenses is through an account with the Oregon 529 College Savings Network. Families can qualify for a state tax deduction of up to $2,000 for contributions to the plan. The earnings and withdrawals are free from state and federal tax as long as the money is used for approved education purposes such as tuition, books, fees or room and board. Students can attend eligible institutions throughout the United States and abroad. Vocational and technical schools as well as community and four-year colleges may be eligible. In addition, it is easy to change the beneficiary of a plan. For further information on 529 plans, those interested can log onto the Web site at www.oregon529network.com.

Parents who hope their children will finance part of the cost of college by earning scholarships should give them opportunities to be involved in community service activities. Girl and Boy Scouts and Camp Fire USA are community service oriented organizations. Parents who are involved in community service could have their children accompany them while serving. Organizations such as churches, the Salvation Army and schools offer opportunities for children to be involved in community service. Scholarships often require that students have been involved in community service during high school. Students who have participated in community service at an early age are likely to engage in community service during high school that will give them an advantage when applying for scholarships as seniors.

Parents who help their children establish sound study habits, engage in community service and save money for college are providing them the foundation for a bright future.

(Cap Sharples was in education for 31 years in the Coos Bay School District. His column on post-high school education runs twice a month during the school year.)