The journey from childhood to adulthood is an emotional time for all involved. For the children, it is a time of excitement, of curiosity and freedom from the confines of childhood. For their parents, your child's transition from secondary school student, to a now independent, fledgling adult is bittersweet, maybe even a cause for anxiety - a trepidation stemming from life experience and long lost naivety perhaps?
Regardless of where it comes from, the process of embarking into adulthood is a transformative experience for both the child, and their parents. One which can be exacerbated even further if this is your first time to experience this as a parent.
As your child prepares to step into this new chapter of life, a myriad of emotions and questions may arise. From the excitement of newfound independence to the anxiety of the unknown, the post-secondary transition is a significant milestone for the entire family. As a parent, it's only natural to want to provide support and guidance during this pivotal time, but as your child progresses into adulthood, it can be hard to determine the level of support you should give.
Emotional guidance and supports
Encourage Independence
While your instinct may be to continue taking charge of your child's every need (as you have done to date ), flying the nest and going to college is an opportune time for them to develop independence. Encourage them to take ownership of their decisions, manage their schedules, and advocate for themselves. This newfound responsibility fosters personal growth and prepares them for the challenges ahead.
Open Communication Channels
Establishing open lines of communication is crucial during this period of change. Create a safe space for your child to express their fears, thoughts, and uncertainties. Be an active listener, offering guidance without imposing your own expectations. Regular check-ins, whether through calls, texts, or video chats, can help maintain a strong connection despite physical distance.
Encourage self-reflection and growth
Encourage your child to view challenges as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles. The college experience is filled with academic, social, and personal challenges that contribute to character development. Reinforce the importance of perseverance, resilience, and the ability to learn from both successes and setbacks.
Advocate for Self-Care
College life can be demanding, and it's crucial for your child to prioritise self-care. Discuss the importance of maintaining a healthy balance between study, social activities, and personal well-being. Encourage them to seek support when needed and to prioritise mental and physical health.
Financial advice
College often comes with financial responsibilities, making it essential for both parents and students to be on the same page. Discuss budgeting, expenses, and financial expectations before they leave for college. Learning how to budget and manage their money responsibly are two lessons that will guide them through to financially secure adulthood.
Research grants and entitlements
Depending on what path your child has chosen for further education, it is imperative that you begin exploring information and resources as soon as possible. Be aware of what tools they may need, or what financial obligations may be expected from you.
SUSI
Student Universal Support Ireland (SUSI ) provides clear guidelines regarding the criteria and its means test for the maintenance grant and education fees. If you are unsure if your child will qualify for SUSI, you can check by entering your details into the Eligibility Reckoner on the SUSI website (susi.ie ).
Scholarships
If your child is an avid athlete, check out sports scholarships. Scholarship requirements and criteria vary across third level institutions, so it is recommended that once your child has submitted their CAO choices to reach out and research their chosen college's sports scholarship requirements. The closing date for these scholarship, much like criteria, varies, but generally have a deadline around the same time of February / March, so don't get caught out. Apply as soon as possible.
Support programmes
With a variety of supports out there for those looking to go back to education, or for students who have a disability, take the time to research programmes like Higher Education Access Route (HEAR ) and Disability Access Route to Education (DARE ). Late applications for the HEAR and DARE programmes are not accepted, so it is in your best interests to start researching now.
Lessons to last a lifetime
As your child steps into the exciting world of college, your role as a parent evolves into that of a supportive guide. By fostering independence, maintaining open communication, and offering financial guidance, you can help your child navigate the challenges and triumphs that lie ahead. Embrace flexibility, promote a growth mindset, and advocate for self-care to ensure a fulfilling and successful college experience for your child. Remember, while the landscape may be unfamiliar, the bond you share and the lessons learned will last a lifetime.
