Mistakes Parents Make When Sending Their Kids Off to College and How to Avoid Them
By:
The Woodlands Behavioral Health & Wellness Center, LLC
| Published 06/26/2024
As our summer begins and you prepare to send your kid to college, this transition is both exciting and daunting, filled with opportunities and challenges. To ensure a smooth transition and to support your child effectively, it's important to be aware of common mistakes and learn how to avoid them. Here are some common pitfalls and tips to help you navigate this journey with confidence.
Underestimating College Challenges
Many parents underestimate the range of challenges their children will face in college, assuming that academic issues will be their primary concern. However, college students encounter a variety of challenges, including social adjustments, mental health struggles like anxiety and depression, and time management issues. Being informed about these potential hurdles can help you better support your child as they navigate this new environment.
Ineffective Communication and Not Allowing Kids to Fail
It's easy to fall into patterns of either over-communicating or under-communicating with your college student, both of which can create tension and misunderstandings. Striking a balance is crucial. Make sure to maintain open lines of communication that encourage your child to share their experiences and feelings without feeling overwhelmed or pressured.
At the same time, it's natural to want to protect your child from failure but shielding them from every mistake can prevent them from learning valuable life lessons. Allow your child to experience challenges and figure out solutions on their own. This helps build resilience and problem-solving skills. Avoid texting or calling them all the time; show them that you trust them to handle their own issues. This trust is crucial for their confidence and independence.
Ignoring Available Resources
Parents often overlook the numerous resources available to college students, which can provide crucial support. Colleges offer a wide range of services, including academic support, mental health resources, and student organizations. Familiarize yourself with these resources so you can guide your child to the help they need when they encounter difficulties.
Over-Involvement or Under-Involvement
Finding the right balance between being involved and allowing your child to grow independently can be challenging. Too much involvement can hinder their development, while too little can leave them feeling unsupported. Provide guidance and support, but also encourage your child to make their own decisions and learn from their experiences.
Not Recognizing Their Adulthood
It's important to remember that your child is now an adult. They need to learn to advocate for themselves. Schools, clinics, and other institutions are not obligated to communicate with you anymore unless your child gives explicit permission. Encourage your child to come to you when they need help, but don't always step in to figure things out for them. Allow them the space to handle their own issues and come to you for guidance when necessary.
Supporting Students with ADHD, ADD, Anxiety, Depression, or Learning Plans
For students with ADHD, ADD, anxiety, depression, or learning plans, the transition to college can be particularly challenging. Ensure that all necessary accommodations and support services are set up before they start college. Encourage your child to familiarize themselves with available mental health resources on campus, such as counseling services. Discuss the importance of seeking help when they feel overwhelmed and make sure they know where to go for support. Teach your child how to advocate for themselves in academic and mental health settings, empowering them to take charge of their own needs.
For help with this and other parenting concerns, we are here to support you as you prepare your child. Join Our Parent Workshop Series!
Prepare to support your college-bound child with confidence. Our workshop series will help you understand the challenges they face, teach effective communication strategies, and introduce you to essential resources. Learn how to balance guidance with independence, ensuring your child succeeds both academically and personally. Don’t miss this chance to empower your child's college journey and strengthen your relationship!
When: Wednesdays, 5:30-7pm
Cost: $260 for a 4-week session
Facilitator: Dr. Jeanie McCusker, LPC, CSC, Certified College Access Counselor
Location: 2700 Research Forest Dr. #130, The Woodlands, Texas 77381
New Clients: Please call 281-528-4226 to schedule a complimentary consultation to see if our group would be a good fit.
Current Clients: Use the QR code to register.
