Tips For Parents Of College-Bound Freshmen

It’s a myth that parental control ends when kids turn 18. Young people between 18 and 25 are emerging adults who often need support from their parents and can benefit from a close relationship with them.

Parents should do their own developmental work, preparing for the changes in their own lives when a child goes off to college. When parents are indecisive or unsure about the change, it sends the wrong signal to their children.

Parents should convey their faith that the same competence that got the young person into college will see them through it well.

Come up with a plan for handling spending allowances, and tailor it to the particular freshman. Some might be able to handle their own credit cards responsibly; others will need more parental oversight.

How often should parents contact their college freshman? If your kid is begging you not to call so many times, or is waiting three days to respond to email, that’s a signal to make an adjustment. The kid will let you know.