Most parents feel an overwhelming sense of sadness when their child moves out of their childhood home to go off to college. Empty nest syndrome. After years of having them depend on you they are leaving to go live their own lives. This statement can make any parent cringe. Will they make good choices? Of course they will. They had your guidance for those 18 years or so. They know right and wrong, but the road to adulthood can have some grey zones, and although they have moved out they will still need your guidance and love. Growing up is a scary thing for anyone and they absolutely need you more than ever for the following reasons.
Within the first few months of college, your child will be meeting hundreds of new people. Most of these people will be from their dorms and come from all over the world and from all walks of life. It is important for your child to understand that they will not get along with all of these new people and it is "okay" to choose your friends and put space between the bad seeds. It is also vital to know who your kids are becoming closer too so you can monitor kids with issues. You don't want to cross lines with telling them who they can and can't talk to but helping them if an issue arises is encouraged.
They will be going to parties. Alcohol and drugs will be in their eyesight and it is important for them to understand do's and don'ts of alcohol.
They will be around the opposite sex. Fact. They will be subject to hard choices and things they have never seen before. They will need you to have conversations with them about these new experiences.
Outside of the social stress they will have more school work than they have ever known. Stress will be a part of their life.
Your child will need you more that ever and for more than one reason. College is a stressful journey and they will need your guidance.
Stay involved but give them space. They will be coming to you when they need you. And they will need you!
Good luck!
Steph
Within the first few months of college, your child will be meeting hundreds of new people. Most of these people will be from their dorms and come from all over the world and from all walks of life. It is important for your child to understand that they will not get along with all of these new people and it is "okay" to choose your friends and put space between the bad seeds. It is also vital to know who your kids are becoming closer too so you can monitor kids with issues. You don't want to cross lines with telling them who they can and can't talk to but helping them if an issue arises is encouraged.
They will be going to parties. Alcohol and drugs will be in their eyesight and it is important for them to understand do's and don'ts of alcohol.
They will be around the opposite sex. Fact. They will be subject to hard choices and things they have never seen before. They will need you to have conversations with them about these new experiences.
Outside of the social stress they will have more school work than they have ever known. Stress will be a part of their life.
Your child will need you more that ever and for more than one reason. College is a stressful journey and they will need your guidance.
Stay involved but give them space. They will be coming to you when they need you. And they will need you!
Good luck!
Steph
About the Author:
Before you make a care package make sure you read Steph Luckey's article on Great Gifts.
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