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.
College dorms have a large amount of people in a small space, and during the first few months everyone is desperate for friends. This can make a drama filled hormone raging space. It is good to stress to your child that they will not like everyone and that its okay to keep some space from some of the "bad seeds". When you get kids from all over the world, and from all walks of life there are bound to be some arguments. Know who your child is talking to!
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.
The opposite sex will show interest in them in a way they have never experienced. They will thus be subject to tough situations they are not used to.
They will have stress- lots of it. They will have more school work than they have ever seen, and might have a hard time balancing the stress. Social stress and school stress can weigh heavily on a person. They will look to you for insight on how to manage this. You can share stories of how you deal or send them a couple dollars to go take a break.
They will be going through a lot the next few years and will look to you for guidance through it all. They need you more than ever.
Whilst giving them space and freedom make sure they know you are always there for them. They will be taking you up on the offer!
Good luck!
Steph
College dorms have a large amount of people in a small space, and during the first few months everyone is desperate for friends. This can make a drama filled hormone raging space. It is good to stress to your child that they will not like everyone and that its okay to keep some space from some of the "bad seeds". When you get kids from all over the world, and from all walks of life there are bound to be some arguments. Know who your child is talking to!
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.
The opposite sex will show interest in them in a way they have never experienced. They will thus be subject to tough situations they are not used to.
They will have stress- lots of it. They will have more school work than they have ever seen, and might have a hard time balancing the stress. Social stress and school stress can weigh heavily on a person. They will look to you for insight on how to manage this. You can share stories of how you deal or send them a couple dollars to go take a break.
They will be going through a lot the next few years and will look to you for guidance through it all. They need you more than ever.
Whilst giving them space and freedom make sure they know you are always there for them. They will be taking you up on the offer!
Good luck!
Steph
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Before you send a Halloween care package make sure you read Stephanie Luckey's article on College Gifts.
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