<p>I do not believe that participating in the NHD contest will help your son when it comes time to apply to college. It is simply a contest, not based on academic achievment or even talent, and quite frankly judging at all levels, especially at the National level, is often biased toward certain schools and sometimes questionable. Going to Nationals is not an educational experience, more like a non-educational field trip. I’m not saying it is without value but in the big picture, it will not help with college. PS- NHD posted this thread on their FB page so expect some comments to try to get them good publicity.</p>
<p>Your son is only in 6th grade, may I suggest letting him be a kid while he still can and not pushing him so hard? You probably heard about that “Dragon Mom” book last year? It sounds like you are pushing him a bit, he’s only a child once.</p>