Transition Tips for Families

Your Blue Jay is not the only one going through a transition. As a parent or family member of a new college student, your role will change as well. Here are some tips to keep in mind as you navigate this transformative time:

ȥ Develop a plan for engaging in a healthy dialogue about their academics and personal life. Remember—it’s their journey, and this is the time where they should start to find out who they are.

ȥ Encourage independence but offer support. When your student has a problem and turns to you for guidance, express your confidence in their ability to solve the problem themselves. Ask how your student plans to proceed, talk through options for addressing the matter, and direct your Blue Jay to our many resources.

ȥ Expect change. Your student may start to have a whole new outlook, political viewpoint, philosophy, or eating habits. Exploring interests and identities is common during college and will help your student become a self-actualized adult. Ask questions and be patient as your student navigates a growing sense of self.

ȥ A good conversation to have on the way to Move-In might be to discuss your student’s academic goals and what they hope to accomplish in their first year of college.

ȥ Understand their need for autonomy. College is a time when they will make mistakes. That’s okay! It enhances their critical thinking skills and builds resilience.

ȥ Connect with other Blue Jay Families. They are either going through or may have experienced similar transitions and can offer insight into what to expect.