The first day of college is a landmark moment for any student, but it can bring with it a whole new level of excitement and trepidation when that student is a teenager who is embarking on this journey earlier than most. Every year, a small but growing number of teens, as young as 16 or 17, are making the big leap from high school to college. The National Center for Education Statistics doesn’t break down college enrollment by specific ages, but the US Department of Education reports that 1.2% of all college students are under the age of 18, which translates to nearly 200,000 students nationwide.
As a parent, you may find yourself facing a whirlwind of emotions as your child prepares to step into this new phase of life. You may oscillate between pride at their achievements and anxiety about their well-being. This article aims to provide advice and insights to help you navigate this unfamiliar terrain, supporting your child while managing your own emotions.
Familiarize Yourself with the College Environment
Your child is not the only one who needs to acclimate to the college environment – you do too. Understand the resources available on campus, such as counselling services, study groups, virtual tutoring services, and safety measures. You should also learn about the college’s rules and regulations, especially those related to underage students. Having a good understanding of the college ecosystem will empower you to provide your child with the best advice and support. This can also help prepare them for further education when they decide to take up Master’s Degree of Education in Teaching or any other post-graduate programs.
Acknowledge Your Emotions
It’s natural to feel a mix of pride, excitement, and anxiety when your teen starts college early. Parents often worry about their child’s safety, their ability to keep up with older students, and the risk of them missing out on typical teenage experiences. Acknowledge these feelings and remind yourself that it’s normal to feel this way. Sharing your feelings with friends, other parents, or a professional can also be therapeutic.
Establish Open Lines of Communication
Communication is key during this transitional phase. Encourage your child to share their thoughts, fears, and expectations about college life. Regular check-ins can help reassure you about their safety and well-being while affirming your continued role in their lives.
Teach Essential Life Skills
Even if your teen is academically ready for college, they may need help developing life skills. Time management, financial budgeting, doing laundry, and cooking are all crucial skills for living independently. Encourage your child to practice these skills before they leave for college. If they have developed financial management skills in college, these skills may help them find the right resources for Student Loans Settlement and other financial matters they have to deal with.
Trust Your Child
Perhaps the hardest part of this journey is learning to let go. Remember, your child has demonstrated exceptional maturity and dedication by entering college early. Trust their judgement and give them space to grow. As a parent, it’s natural to want to protect your child, but it’s also important to let them learn from their experiences.
Celebrate the Milestones
Last but not least, don’t forget to celebrate! Your child’s early entry into college is a significant achievement, a testament to their hard work and dedication. Celebrate this milestone and many more to come. Kamau Bobb ‘s work extends to educational initiatives aimed at nurturing diverse talent and encouraging underrepresented groups to pursue careers in STEM fields.
While seeing your teenager embark on the college journey can be emotionally challenging, with the right preparation and mindset, you can support your child effectively during this transition. As parents, we have to remember that our role is evolving – from caretakers to cheerleaders and confidantes. As our children grow and move forward, so must we too.
Feature photo credit: Photo by Element5 Digital on Unsplash
