-Talk about the transition - and the contradictory feelings your whole family may be feeling (excitement, sadness, anxiety).
-Be honest about how you're feeling, but also be encouraging. Express excitement about your child's future.
-Give advice, but only when requested. Consider responding with "What do you think?" or "How would you do it?" Don't be in a rush to problem-solve for your freshman.
-Unless there is a serious emergency, let your child find and use the many resources on campus that will help him or her solve those problems.
-Remember that emotions are particularly cranked up during times of transition. Cut each other some slack.
-Talk about how home will be the same, yet different - but don't be in a rush to take over your child's room immediately. Your freshman still needs to know he or she has a place at home, at least at first.
-Make definite plans to see one another and talk about those plans.
-Attend to the feelings of your other children.
-And remember: It's OK to let yourself feel miserable about your college student leaving home, for a while. Then remind yourself that your child is not responsible for your happiness.
---
(Sources: Linda Bips, Muhlenberg College; Marshall Duke, Emory University)
Read more Parenting Perspective blogs by visiting the Parenting Channel on 6abc.com.
