Sending a child off to college can be a bittersweet moment for parents. On the one hand, parents are proud of their child’s accomplishments and excited about the opportunities that lie ahead.
On the other hand, they may worry about their child’s safety, well-being, and success in college. As a parent of a first-year college student in India, there are several tips to keep in mind to help your child succeed.
1. Encourage your child to get involved in campus activities
One of the best ways for first-year college students to adjust to college life is by getting involved in campus activities. Encourage your child to attend club meetings, join intramural sports teams, or volunteer for community service.
This will help your child make friends, build a support system, and feel more connected to the campus community.
Tips for first-time parents
2. Set expectations for academic success
College can be a challenging academic environment, and it’s important for first-year students to establish good study habits early on.
Talk to your child about the importance of attending classes, completing assignments on time, and seeking help if they are struggling. Setting expectations for academic success can help your child stay on track and avoid falling behind.
3. Teach your child basic life skills
Living on their own for the first time can be overwhelming for first-year college students. Teach your child basic life skills such as cooking, cleaning, doing laundry, and managing finances.
This will help your child become more independent and better equipped to handle the responsibilities of college life.
4. Stay in touch, but don’t overdo it
It’s important to stay in touch with your child while they’re away at college. However, it’s also important to give them space to adjust to their new environment.
Find a balance between staying connected and giving your child the freedom to explore their independence.
5. Discuss safety and responsible behavior
College campuses can be fun and exciting places, but they can also be dangerous if students are not careful. Talk to your child about the importance of personal safety, responsible behavior, and the dangers of drugs and alcohol.
Encourage your child to make smart choices and to always look out for their own safety and the safety of others.
6. Help your child manage stress
College can be stressful, and it’s important for first-year students to learn how to manage stress effectively.
Encourage your child to take breaks, exercise, get enough sleep, and seek help if they are feeling overwhelmed. Remind your child that it’s okay to ask for help and that seeking assistance is a sign of strength, not weakness.
7. Prepare for homesickness
Homesickness is common among first-year college students, especially those who are attending college far from home.
Help your child prepare for homesickness by encouraging them to stay in touch with family and friends, sending care packages, and planning visits home.
8. Stay informed about campus resources
College campuses offer a wide range of resources to help students succeed, including academic support services, counseling services, and health services.
Stay informed about these resources and encourage your child to take advantage of them if needed.
9. Keep in touch with your child’s friends
Your child’s friends can be a valuable source of support and comfort during their college years. Encourage your child to maintain their friendships from high school and to make new friends in college.
Stay in touch with your child’s friends and their families, and consider organizing social events or outings together.
This can help your child feel more connected to their support system and provide a sense of familiarity in a new environment.
10. Find a local guardian for emergency help
In case of an emergency, it’s important for your child to have someone they can turn to for help.
Consider finding a local guardian, such as a family member, friend, or trusted acquaintance, who can provide assistance in case of an emergency.
Make sure your child has the contact information of their local guardian and encourage them to reach out if they ever need help or support.
This can provide both you and your child with peace of mind knowing that there is someone nearby who can assist in case of an emergency.
