As summer rolls in, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of your child transitioning from high school to college. I had envisioned a delightful summer with my son, filled with bonding experiences and profound conversations about adulthood. I pictured us sharing our favorite pastimes, exploring dorm essentials, and having those heart-to-heart talks that would leave him feeling prepared for this new chapter. Unfortunately, reality had other plans.
Instead, my son seemed more interested in hanging out with his friends than spending quality time with family. He craved the freedom of adulthood but often acted like a typical teenager. With a growing to-do list—forms to fill out, appointments to schedule, and shopping to do—I found myself nagging him, and he was pushing back in what is commonly referred to as “spoiling the nest.” The looming departure stirred up many emotions, leading to moments of frustration on both sides.
Eventually, we managed to regroup and tackle the logistics of his transition together. The process of discussing, planning, and preparing for his new dorm (which, let’s be honest, was far from glamorous) helped us navigate this emotional landscape. As he prepared to leave, it became clear to me that our children should truly understand the incredible opportunity they have. College is a rare gift—a time for growth, study, and self-discovery that many people throughout history have never experienced.
This summer felt like the perfect moment for us to dive into some significant life lessons. We discussed the reasons behind our marriage, the ups and downs of relationships, and the kind of partners we hope they will become. It was essential to talk about the significance of sibling relationships and the joys and challenges they entail. Sharing our experiences as parents—the love and heartache—was also vital. These conversations may evoke sadness, but they also offer wisdom that can guide our children as they embark on their own journeys.
While college is often dubbed the “best four years of your life,” it comes with its own set of challenges. Issues like alcohol use, mental health, and sexual misconduct deserve open discussions. Although colleges emphasize these topics during orientation, parents should also engage their kids in honest conversations about them. As stress and anxiety rise on campuses, our children must know when to seek help and how to support their friends during tough times.
We should share our own experiences of failure and resilience, showing them that nobody’s perfect. It’s easy to fall back on cliché advice like “make friends” or “stay out of trouble,” which often rings hollow. Instead, we can draw on research and the experiences of recent graduates to provide more meaningful guidance. Experts highlight the importance of small classes, living on campus as a freshman, and getting involved in campus activities.
One former student wisely advised finding a “constant” in life—something familiar and comforting to hold onto during tumultuous times. This could be a hobby, a favorite book series, or a weekly treat from a coffee shop. Freshmen should also reach out to make friends early on, join study groups, and remember to prioritize their health without parental nagging, as they’ve got to take charge now.
By the end of summer, my son was prepared to leave, and we had shared countless conversations. As we moved him into his dorm, I felt a mix of pride and sadness, knowing he was ready for this new adventure. I reminded myself that I had done my best to equip him for the future. Then, as I drove home, tears streamed down my face—because, let’s be honest, saying goodbye is hard.
In summary, as your child prepares for college, make sure to engage in meaningful conversations about life lessons, relationships, and the challenges they may face. Equip them not only with practical advice but also with the emotional support they’ll need as they embark on this new journey.
For more insightful content on parenting and preparing for new beginnings, check out our other posts on home insemination kits and helpful resources for pregnancy and family planning.