FOCUS: Parenting 

EDITION: September 2024

The Game Plan: Things to Decide Before or During the First Week of College

Sending your child off to college is a significant milestone, not just for them but for you as well. As parents, this transition brings a mix of emotions and new responsibilities. While your child is busy navigating their new environment, there are several important decisions you’ll need to make to support them and ensure a smooth start to their college journey. From setting communication expectations to planning financial logistics and understanding their academic schedule, these early decisions can help both you and your child feel more prepared and connected during this exciting time.


Here’s a guide to the key considerations parents should keep in mind before or during the first week of college.


Monthly Allowance: Decide on a budget for extra food, gas, and personal expenses.


Grade Point Expectations: Set expectations for maintaining a certain GPA. Make clear the consequence of this not happening. 


Dropping a Class: Discuss when and how to inform parents if they’re considering dropping a class.


Medical and Prescriptions: Determine who will be in charge of managing and refilling prescriptions.


Books and School Supplies: Decide who will handle purchasing books and supplies each semester.


Texting Back: Set expectations for timely responses when parents call or text.


Weekly Check-Ins: Establish a regular time each week to catch up and check in on how things are going.


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Next Up...

Adulting 101: How to Set Consequences for Your College Kid Without Losing Your Mind

Establishing consequences for your college-bound kid can feel like trying to nail Jell-O to a wall, but it’s crucial for helping them navigate the wild world of adulting while keeping some sanity for yourself. Here’s your go-to guide to setting clear and effective consequences (with a side of humor):


1. Set Clear Expectations First

Discuss Expectations Openly: Sit them down for ‘The Talk’—no, not that one. We’re talking about grades, budgets, and the reality of laundry not doing itself. Make sure they know what’s expected, so there are no “I didn’t know!” excuses later.


Put It in Writing: Think of it as a contract… but without the legal jargon. A simple written agreement outlines what they need to do and what’ll happen if they decide to skip Econ 101 in favor of a 2 PM nap. Keep it clear, keep it simple, and maybe add a signature for fun.


2. Involve Them in the Process

Have a Collaborative Discussion: This isn’t just a one-way lecture. Get their input on the expectations and consequences. They’re more likely to stick to the rules if they helped create them (and it’s harder for them to argue later!).



Ask for Their Input: Let them suggest what they think is fair. You might be surprised—sometimes they’re tougher on themselves than you would be. Plus, it’s a great way to get them to start thinking about the consequences of their own actions. Welcome to adulthood, kiddo!


KEEP READING

Ramen for Dinner? What to Expect When Your Kids Go Off to College

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Detoxifying From Your College Kid: A Survival Guide for Parents

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BECKY RECOMMENDS:

"Letting Go: A Parents' Guide to Understanding the College Years"


by Karen Coburn


Letting Go provides hundreds of thousands of parents with valuable insights, information, comfort, and guidance throughout the emotional and social changes of their children's college years—from the senior year in high school through college graduation.


In this era of constant communication, this edition tackles the challenge facing parents: finding the balance between staying connected and letting go.



LEARN MORE

Find More Recommended Books

PARENTING PODCAST EPISODES:

Your Empty Nest Coach Podcast


These episodes are geared specifically for helping guide your college student through the complexities of college life. From missing home to moving campuses, Christine prepares you for what is to come.


LEARN MORE

Find More Recommended Podcasts
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CRT, CCDC, CACC
Life Coach & Counselor
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