Intersting Topic Of The Month: Thoughtful Ways To Support Your Child In College

When your children go to college, they may often want and need your support without ever telling you. Here are some of our favorite ways to show support, no matter what:

1. Write your child a heartfelt letter or card and tuck it away in their suitcase so that they find it after you’ve left them. Having something to read reminding them of how proud you are and how hopeful you are for their future can make them feel at ease in a new place.

2. Ask them about their major exams and assignments. Find out when they are happening or when things are due. Show your support in any way possible—be it a text the morning of an exam or a phone call after to see how things went. This small gesture can go a long way.

3. Most students check their campus mail often and always find an empty box. Sending them a handwritten letter, a small care package, or other piece of snail mail is sure to bring a smile to their faces.

4. If you live close enough to drive, you might consider driving up to take them out to dinner, buy them a round of groceries, or spend some quality time together doing things you both enjoy, even for just a few hours. This will help them feel more at home and remind them that you aren’t far away.

5. Remember that they are adults now and they will make decisions you disagree with or even mistakes. Rather than admonish them, talk to them rationally about their choices. You want to remain a source of support that your children can confide in rather than someone they think they should hide things from. You raised them to make good choices and to be strong, independent people. You can disagree and be disappointed, but if you listen and support them, they are more likely to be open with you about what is happening in their lives.

6. Whenever you’re missing them or thinking of them, let them know. A text, email, or phone call only takes a few seconds, but it can make you both feel better.

We wish you a successful transition into college and hope you find unique and personal ways to support your child through this exciting transitional time!