You’ve just dropped off your young adult at his or her new home away from home for the next 9 months. Unfortunately, the hard part is not quite over because in the next few weeks both you and your son or daughter will be going through a time of transitioning. But rest assured it will get easier as time goes on. Here are a few tips as you go through these new experiences and changes.
The top priority is to communicate trust with your son or daughter. You’ve done your job bringing up your children, now it’s time to see that what you’ve instilled in them, that they will make good choices on their own. Talk to him or her about your values and your expectations. Make it clear that the lines of communication are wide open regardless of the miles between you and whatever challenges that may come, that you are there for him or her to talk when you are needed.
Time to let go. This is the hardest part of growing up for the both of you. You need to keep in mind that a big part of their becoming an adult will be in their first year of college. This will involve some experimentation, new ideals, constant challenges and new experiences that are necessary for them to go through to build up their independence and become a successful and productive adult. Remember to just listen to your child and continue to express your trust, love and open communication.
You can’t protect them forever, so risks may be necessary. It is important that you may have to support your son or daughter while he or she takes risks, with the understanding that mistakes may be made. It’s learning how to manage a mistake will result in their ability to handle challenges throughout the rest of their lives, personally, academically and professionally. 
You may not hear from your son or daughter for long lengths of time. This could occur as soon as a few days after your son and daughter have been at college. Keep in mind that most colleges are in tuned to new students having difficulty with the transition and are likely to have ongoing activities to help the new students become more comfortable with college life. Realize that during this time, everything will seem new and exciting and calling you may not end up on the top things to do list. But, know that when the dust settles and a routine is established that you will be getting that call or text message that he or she is doing ok.
When you do finally hear from your son or daughter. Try not to quiz him or her during your talks, keep it simple. Ask about how he or she is doing, how the classes are and if anything exciting is going on. Remember to just listen when you hear about some of the bad things that may come up. You will be able to get a complete picture of what is going on when you remember to listen well and ask little.
Lastly, think about yourself now. Consider taking more time for yourself and your spouse to do the things that you never got to do when your child was at home. It’s an opportunity to become a couple again and enjoy yourselves and your space. If you are a single parent, consider doing some of things that you’ve always imagined doing whether it’s a new hobby, going back to school, adopting a pet or whatever your heart desires for the sky is the limit.
Here at Donald J. Medeiros Insurance Agency our goal is to try to help our viewers by suggesting solutions about different topics of interest, as well as insurance needs. But, by no means can we address each reader’s specific concerns. So, we strongly advise to check with an expert on the subject area discussed to address your specific needs. However, you can always contact us for any insurance questions or concerns you may have and we will be happy to help you. For college students, we are able to offer a complete line of auto insurance and renters insurance products for all of Massachusetts, Rhode Island & New Hampshire.