Few parents understand how important it is to approach the college search as a team, rather than as a team leader. When you’ve spent almost two decades leading and guiding your children, it’s easy to forget that deciding where to go to college is one of the first major milestones for expressing independence. It marks a child’s move into adulthood. That’s why, rather than having you take charge, what your kids truly need is for you to step back — while still providing constructive advice. How can you do this? When it comes to college searches, the name of the game is gentle support, rather than overbearing control. As a loving parent, you can help your student tremendously by taking a step back, thinking about what’s most important and trying to walk alongside him or her in the process. Remember, this is a chance for your child to express the agency that will help carry them throughout the rest of their lives. Empowering that decision making rather than taking control of it will be most useful to your child. By using the tips provided in the infographic accompanying this post, you can provide real help without overstepping your role as a parent.
The Parent-Student Relationship In College Searches for more information on the college search process, be sure to check out the Encourage App
