Tips for Parents

Attending a post-secondary institution is an exciting time for both students and parents.  It marks the beginning of a new phase in your student’s life, filled with exciting new opportunities.  It can also be a stressful and challenging phase.  The following are some tips to help make the transition as successful as possible for you, the ‘university parent’.

Surviving the transition

• Realize that some feelings of ambivalence are normal
• Be honest about your thoughts and feelings and talk about them
• Remember, your child is taking important developmental steps toward full adulthood
• Stay in touch
• Provide comfortable space, and allow your child to set the agenda for some of your conversations
• Be realistic and clear about financial matters
• Be realistic about academic achievement and grades
• If your child does experience difficulties, encourage them to take advantage of the resources available in the Student Affairs Office

Tips for handling the next stage

• Offer lots of love, compassion, understanding and flexibility
• Honour the transition by letting go
• Allow your child to grow
• Believe in your child
• Give some time for everyone to adjust
• Stretch your capabilities of trust and adaptability
• Learn to communicate differently

You have access to knowledge

Know the warning signs of:

• Unhealthy relationships
• Depression
• Suicidal thoughts and feelings
• Alcohol and drug dependency
• Addictive patterns and behaviour
• Dating violence and sexual assault
• Unhealthy eating behaviours

Your increased understanding of these problems will prepare you to discuss them effectively with your student. You can find out more on the various warning signs through your own employee assistance program, your physician, preferred care provider or by talking with someone in Student Affairs at the university. Download Warning Sign Posters.