How you can support your student

Here’s some gentle advice to help you stay connected while encouraging your student’s autonomy:

• Your student is ready for college. They’re capable of making daily decisions and navigating academic challenges with the foundation you’ve helped build.
• Stay connected. Whether by phone, email, video calls, or snail mail—maintain regular, encouraging communication. Ask thoughtful questions like: “What are you thinking of doing?” or “What options have you considered?”
• Show interest beyond the classroom. Ask about their residence life, campus clubs, friends, and social experiences.
• Encourage help-seeking. If they’re struggling, remind them of the many support resources on campus—from faculty and advisors to Health Services and Counseling Support Services.
• Attend campus events. Join us for Family Connection Days, Homecoming, and other special gatherings that give you a glimpse into your student’s life at North Park.

Supporting mental and emotional health

Transitions are hard—and mental health support is vital. Your student may experience:

• Stress from academic or social pressures
• Homesickness, anxiety, or loneliness
• Difficulty adjusting to independence
• Exacerbated pre-existing mental health conditions

Encourage your student to use Counseling Support Services, which offers free and confidential services to full-time and degree-seeking part-time students, including individual and group therapy, mental health education, and referrals.

Before your student starts college

• Talk about the importance of mental wellness and the responsibility of speaking up when they’re struggling.
• Normalize help-seeking as a sign of strength, not weakness.

Once they’re at North Park

• Stay in touch, but don’t hover. Early on, they may want frequent contact. Adjust as they become more independent.
• Don’t rush to solve problems. Listen first. Encourage use of campus support resources rather than intervening right away.
• Trust your instincts. If something feels off—ask.
• Watch for signs of distress. Changes in eating, sleeping, mood, or academic performance could signal they need help.
• Let them lead. Help them build confidence by making decisions and handling challenges with your support—not your solutions.

More gentle tips for the transition

Adapted from The Washington Post and University of Maryland family support guides:

• Say something meaningful when you part. Whether it’s “I’m proud of you” or “You’ve got this,” a few sincere words matter. If it’s hard to say in person, send a follow-up note.
• Expect your relationship to change. Give everyone time to adjust.
• Give space—even at home. If your student is commuting, respect their time and independence.
• Don’t change their room right away. It’s a comforting “home base” when they return.
• Go slow when problems arise. When your student calls upset, “move like your feet are stuck in molasses.” Offer empathy, not immediate solutions.
• Grades may drop at first. Learning how to be a college student takes time—at least one semester. Be patient.

We’re all learning—students, parents, and families. Encourage your student to use the many resources available at North Park and remind them (and yourself) that growth takes time.