Louisiana State University fans, I see you with your LSU kids. They’re rocking purple and gold jerseys, clutching Mike the Tiger dolls in chubby fists, humming Fight for LSU from memory. Way to go with the indoctrination! If luck holds out, your little ones will grow into fine LSU students.
It’s many a parent’s dream that their child matriculate at a certain university. Still, even if they rebel and choose a school full of students who yell Roll Tide, the message about higher education can get through at an early age. Including children in specific collegiate traditions is a great way to help them understand the greatness that can be the college experience.
Raising Kids Who Yell GEAUX TIGERS!
(or who break your heart and choose a different school)
Here are some tips to help you and Junior along the way:
- Read, read, read – books about college. So you’re tired of slogging through that newborn board book that features colors? Try a college-themed tome instead. “See Mike?” “Mike the Tiger is orange.” -You get the picture, pun intended. Early elementary-aged kids can recite the couplets in When I Grow Up, I’ll be a Tiger; purchase a book about LSU history for your middle or high school-aged student.
- Remember that Saturdays are not just for football. Sure, take your child to campus decked out in his gameday best. Also, take an hour to walk around beforehand and explain where Daddy or Mommy took their favorite classes and why this place is so absolutely incredible.
- Make it clear to a child that college is where many people receive training to become what they want to be. Personalize this opportunity for the child; if he loves math, for example, explain that at college he may take math courses galore.
- Back to football. A huge part of the college experience is sports, so if your child seems game, grab that year’s media guide and discuss this year’s squad. Is your little lady more interested in outrunning all the other kids on the playground? Request a cross-country media guide instead.
Good luck inspiring the next generation! Introduce higher education to children through your favorite college, watch the allegiance grow, and cross your fingers. Hopefully, they’ll choose your alma mater. And if not – at least you tried.
When I Grow Up, I’ll be a Tiger – LSU Kids GIVEAWAY
Enter to win one of TWO copies of When I Grow Up, I’ll be a Tiger on our Facebook and Instagram pages!
Amy Hammond believes all children should set their sights on college greatness. The author of When I Grow Up, I’ll be a Tiger, When I Grow Up, I’ll Be a Gator, When I Grow Up, I’ll Be a ‘Nole, When I Grow Up, I’ll Be a Bull and When I Grow Up, I’m Bama Bound has been an LSU fan for as long as she can remember. Her books can be purchased online here, at campus bookstores and various retailers; to purchase signed copies, email her at [email protected].