As students begin their college journey, parents may notice changes in their behavior, communication, and independence. They may seek more autonomy, develop new interests, and form diverse relationships. Shifts in routines, values, or decision-making are common as they adapt to their new environment. While these changes can be challenging, they’re a natural part of personal growth and becoming a young adult. Staying supportive and open to these transitions helps maintain a strong, evolving parent-student relationship.
It is important during these changes to still have the difficult conversations and ask questions about their academics, involvement, athletics, and social life. But not too many!
- Show them how to do their laundry. How to get stains out and not change all their whites, red.
- The dos and don’ts of sharing their personal space with a roommate. How to live with another person and be courteous.
- Show them how to schedule and manage their own health appointments and prescriptions. Go through the family medical history and their insurance documents.
- Encourage them to use on campus services, but also local doctor facilities.
- Encourage them to make their world a little smaller and connect with staff, faculty, organizations, and resources on campus
- Show them how to manage and live within a budget. The dos and don’ts of credit cards.
- Make sure your student understands their safety and security responsibilities when they are away from home.
- Letting Go, Sixth Edition: A Parents’ Guide to Understanding the College Years - by Karen Coburn and Madge Lawrence Treeger
- The Happiest Kid on Campus - by Harlan Cohen
- Out to Sea: A Parents’ Survival Guide to the Freshman Voyage - by Kelly Radi
- Sending Your Child to College: The Prepared Parent’s Operational Manual - by Ann Louise Carr, Elizabeth Ashby Carr, and Katharine Marie Carr
- When Your Kid Goes to College: A Parent’s Survival Guide (either edition) - by Carol Barkin
- Don’t Tell Me What to Do, Just Send Money - by Helen Johnson & Christine Schelhas‑Miller
- You’re on Your Own (But I’m Here If You Need Me) - by Marjorie Savage
- College Ready: Expert Advice for Parents… edited - by Chelsea Petree, Ph.D.
- The Stressed Years of Their Lives - by Janet Hibbs & Anthony Rostain
- How to Raise an Adult - by Julie Lythcott‑Haims
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