8 tips for parents on how to cope when your child leaves for college

Aug 31st, 2009

When millions of teenagers leave home for college this fall, it can be an exciting, but anxiety-provoking time for not only the student, but also the parents. Here are some tips to help with a smooth transition:

Talk about credit cards and finances before school begins.

Things to consider are whether the student will have a credit card and whether or not parents should be the co-signer. Credit card debts and problems financing are common among college students.
Resist the urge to decorate your child’s new dorm room.

This is one of the great ways that students can “break the ice” with their roommates.
Don’t call your child incessantly.

While you may be appropriately concerned, it is also important to give your child room. Instead try to agree a time once a week when you can both have a good talk with each other on the phone.
Let your children make their own academic decision.

It is important to give them a chance to make their own decision independently. Their academic decision will effect the career they choose and it is important that they find their career, not what their parents’ career for the child.
Let your children take their own time and make them realize their responsibility.

When they seek your help, give them all the time you have to hear them out and resolve their issues.
Let your child work through disputes with friends.

This will be helpful in making them strong. They must learn to work through social issues on their own. You can still be an active listener and guide them into making the right decisions.
Be interested, not critical, of the classes they are taking.

Most colleges and universities have course selection and degree requirements that need to be addressed during the student’s first year.
Take care of yourself!

It is important to take care of yourself during this transition. It is a huge change and adjustment. As happy as you may be, it can also feel like a loss. This is the time to lean on your friends. Maybe some of them are going through the same thing or have already gone through it.