PARENTS' PAGES

"Points to Ponder"
-Brenda Davis-Smith

As parents, we tend to want to be closely involved in our children's lives.  This is not a bad thing, but it is not always a good thing either.  Now that our 'children' are entering college and are experiencing more of the 'real world', it is time to let go a little.  If we are to guide our children toward responsible adulthood, now is the time to let them show us how much they actually listened to what we taught them!

By now we have all heard the term 'Helicopter Parents' and know that it describes those of us who 'hover' over every detail of our children's lives.  Though well-intentioned, this behavior is actually preventing our young adults from becoming self-reliant and independent.  Of course the parent thinks h/she is shielding their child from harm, but in reality the 'child' is so well 'shielded' that in many cases they cannot learn from their mistakes; feel a sense of accomplishment from making their own decisions; or grow and mature by solving problems without the 'help' of their parents.    

Here are some helpful links to resources, information, and printed material that can help you to more effectively 'parent' your young adult:

10 Tips for Parents of Prospective College Students

When Your Kid Goes to College; A Parent's Survival Guide (by Carol Barkin)

Don't Tell Me What to Do, Just Send Money: The Essential Parenting Guide to the College Years (by Helen E. Johnson, Christine Schelhas-Miller)

Letting Go: A Parents' Guide to Understanding the College Years, Fourth Edition (by Kevin Coburn, madge lawrence Treeger)