As back to school quickly approaches, some parents have it a little harder than just putting their child on the bus.
Whether its their oldest child, or the last one to leave the nest, parents of college-aged kids often have trouble adjusting to daily life without them.
Experts say when a child goes to college, it can create as much angst for the parents as it does for the student.
Mark Thompson, director of Colgate’s Counseling & Psychological Services at Colgate University in Hamilton, New York, says parents of soon-to-be college freshmen should start preparing now for the day their sons and daughters leave home. Thompson offers these tips to help anxious parents cope:
1. Set realistic expectations of how, and how often, you and your child will be in contact. Is email or Facebook enough, or do you want regular phone calls and weekend visits? Even after your standards are established, don't push it. A constant stream of communication, though well-meaning, can sometimes actually hinder a student’s personal development.
2. Remember that the road will be bumpy. It's likely your child will call you more if he or she is stressed or homesick. Don't consider this a measure of their overall happiness at school. Resist the urge to try and "save" your child. Instead, encourage him to solve his problems by himself.
3. Check out the online version of the school newspaper to keep up with what's going on in your child's world. Plus, it will give the two of you something to talk about.
4. Plan your child's school breaks with them ahead of time. Schedule days when he or she will come home and mark them on your calendar so you can look forward to the visit.
5. Share your concerns about college with your kids. They often have the same worries and issues concerning alcohol, independence and financial responsibility. They may want to talk to you about these things, but you have to ask.
(Information courtesy:
Colgate University)
