Empty Nest Prep: Helping Your Child (and Yourself!) Get Ready for College
The summer before your child heads off to college is a bittersweet symphony of excitement and a touch of anxiety. You’re thrilled for their next chapter, but also grappling with the impending shift in your family dynamic. This summer is crucial for both your child and you. Here's how to navigate this transition smoothly:
1. The Practical Stuff: Logistics and Paperwork
Financial Aid and Paperwork: Ensure all FAFSA and college financial aid paperwork is complete. Double-check deadlines and required documentation.
Health and Insurance: Verify your child's health insurance coverage and ensure they have necessary immunizations and medical records. Discuss healthcare access at their college.
Banking and Finances: Open a student checking account if needed, discuss budgeting, and explore options for sending money.
Transportation: Plan for travel to and from college, including move-in day. Discuss options for transportation on campus and during breaks.
Dorm Essentials: Start gathering dorm room supplies and create a packing list together. Consider a trip to a store like Target or Bed Bath & Beyond, or shop online to make the process easier.
2. Fostering Independence and Life Skills:
Cooking and Laundry: If your child isn't already proficient, teach them basic cooking skills and laundry techniques. These seemingly small things become huge when they’re living independently.
Time Management and Organization: Help them develop time management skills and organizational strategies. College life demands strong self-discipline.
Budgeting and Financial Literacy: Discuss budgeting, managing expenses, and the responsible use of credit cards.
Problem-Solving and Decision-Making: Encourage them to tackle problems independently and make their own decisions. This builds confidence and resilience.
Safety and Awareness: Discuss safety precautions, including campus security, personal safety, and responsible decision-making.
3. The Emotional Side: Letting Go and Staying Connected:
Open Communication: Maintain open and honest communication with your child. Discuss their excitement, anxieties, and expectations.
Acknowledge Your Own Emotions: It's okay to feel a mix of emotions. Acknowledge your feelings and talk to your partner, friends, or family.
Establish Communication Expectations: Discuss how often you'll communicate and what forms of communication you'll use (phone calls, texts, video chats).
Plan for Visits and Breaks: Discuss potential visits home and plan for breaks. Having something to look forward to can ease the transition.
Respect Their Independence: While you want to stay connected, respect their need for independence and allow them to build their own life.
Embrace the Change: Understand that your relationship will evolve. Focus on building a new type of relationship with your adult child.
4. Building a Support System:
Connect with Other Parents: Reach out to other parents of college-bound students. Sharing experiences can provide valuable support.
Explore Campus Resources: Familiarize yourself with campus resources, such as counseling services, academic support, and student health services.
Stay Involved (From a Distance): Find ways to stay involved in your child's life without being overbearing. Support their interests and celebrate their achievements.
5. Enjoy the Remaining Time:
Create Lasting Memories: Spend quality time with your child, creating lasting memories before they leave.
Plan Fun Activities: Engage in activities you both enjoy, whether it's going to a concert, taking a road trip, or simply having family dinners.
Take Photos and Videos: Capture these precious moments to cherish in the years to come.
This summer is a transition period for the entire family. By preparing practically and emotionally, you can help your child embark on their college journey with confidence and support, while also navigating your own transition to a new phase of life. Remember, this is a beginning, not an end.
