Most young adults are excited about embarking on a university course and are eager to fly the nest without a passing thought as to how they might cope without their parent’s constant support and guidance. However, just because your children are moving out and forging their own path in life it doesn’t mean that you can’t still have a positive impact and help them wherever or whenever necessary.

Some young adults won’t want to acknowledge it, but the support they receive from their parents during their time at university will be hugely important to them. The transition to university life can be overwhelming for some people, so it can often be comforting to have that element of stability that parents provide, as well as the emotional support of family members. Here are a few ways you can show your support without coming across as too overbearing.

1. Communicate With Them Often
As children hit the teenage year’s communication can sometimes be lacking and for parents this can often be quite frustrating. However, rather than showing your annoyance at the grunts you might receive daily or the lack of phone calls when your child has moved out, try to be patient and understanding. Show support by asking how they are getting on with their online GIST degree and if they are enjoying university life – you might not get a detailed response at the time, but by doing this on a regular basis you are showing that you are there for them if they need help and this can be enough to make them feel supported.

2. Encourage Debate and Discussions
When you do get together, show that you are interested in their new life by starting discussions based on current affairs or a relevant topic, maybe a subject that links to their geographic information science and technology degree. Inquire about their opinions on the matter, ask them to explain concepts to you or challenge their beliefs in a diplomatic way. The chances are a lot of their time spent socializing with their peers hasn’t been focused on entirely educational subject matters, so this type of conversation will help to spark their enthusiasm and is a great bonding method.

3. Make Sure they’re Taking Time Out
University life can sometimes be a high pressured environment especially when deadlines are looming or there are important exams on the horizon. Some students are so determined to get good grades or are so worried about failing that they will barricade themselves inside and bury their heads in GIST books for days on end. It’s often a time when parents can feel quite anxious as they may not hear from their children and they want to ensure they are eating and looking after themselves. One thing parents can do is to persuade their children to take some time out from their studies and explain that short breaks are important for refreshing their minds and stimulating their brains. Suggest activities you could together, such as a shopping trip, meal out or even a simple walk in a park.

If you’re worried that you’re being too interfering then take consolation in the fact that studies have shown students whose parents are involved in their education are more likely to achieve better grades and have higher self-esteem.

Brought to you by our friend, Carol.