1. 📱 Stay Connected — But Not Constantly

College students need space to grow, but they also still value your support. Find a rhythm that works — weekly phone calls, casual texts, or video chats.

Tip: Let them take the lead sometimes. A “thinking of you” text can mean more than a long list of questions.

Source: Psychology Today – What to Do (and Not Do) as a College Parent

2. 🧳 Support Their Independence

Encourage your student to manage their own responsibilities — from laundry to doctor appointments. College is a great time to build real-world skills.

What to do: Avoid solving every problem. Offer guidance, but let them figure out next steps.

3. 💰 Talk Finances Openly

Money is one of the biggest stressors in college life. Whether you’re helping financially or not, set clear expectations and talk about budgeting early.

Tools: Budgeting apps like Mint or You Need a Budget (YNAB) can help them track spending and avoid debt.

Source: CFPB – Student Financial Tools

4. 🏠 Adjust to the New Relationship

Your role is changing — and that’s okay. Parenting a college student means less hands-on and more emotional support from the sidelines.

Tip: Avoid comparing your child’s path to others. Everyone’s journey through college is different.

5. 🧠 Keep Mental Health in Mind

College can bring anxiety, loneliness, and academic pressure. Encourage your student to take care of their mental health and normalize asking for help.

What to do: Share campus counseling resources with them, and check in gently about how they’re doing emotionally.

Resource: The Jed Foundation – Mental Health Support for College Students