Although starting college is often a challenging transition for students to make, people sometimes overlook how difficult these changes can be for parents and guardians, as well.
They are expected to be strong and steady — a well of confidence and reassurance for their student. For many family members, however, there is an underlying uneasiness and deep lack of certainty during this time. The effort to manage these conflicting feelings can be emotionally exhausting and confusing.
One problem you will need to navigate — and it's, perhaps, the most difficult one — is how you can most effectively and meaningfully participate in your student's college life without working against his or her developing independence and autonomy. The following links may provide you with some advice and assistance.