These final steps to adulthood aren’t easy for students — or their parents.

Resist the temptation to do too much for children as they transition out of high school. They’ll be more successful if you do.

College students typically find themselves out in the world for the very first time, meaning they need to have already developed skills in money and time management, organizing and social etiquette. If they haven’t, some things may have to be learned the hard way — through experience. That’s part of the process, too.

Frank Discussions

Talk to your child about the huge changes that are on the way. The main challenges for them will be a greater sense of responsibility to go with their newfound independence. As a parent, you’ll also have to adjust to having less contact and information about their daily lives. Encourage teens to talk about their expectations and fears about college life. Ask what they are most concerned about, how they’re feeling about leaving their childhood home, and how these new responsibilities might present a challenge.

Finding Their Way

Teach your college-aged child to find needed resources, but allow them to fail. They’ll rely on these memories to complete a journey toward maturity.

Self-reliance plays a huge role. So those having trouble with coursework may have to locate helpful resources on their own college campuses. Those stuck on the side of the road may have to change their own tire. If they get in real trouble, you’ll still be there to provide expert advice and assistance, as required. But in the meantime, allow them to make mistakes — and recover from them. They’ll need these lived experiences to succeed on their own.

Mental Health

Going away to college can be isolating at first, in particular if the campus is far from home. Talk to your student about issues like anxiety, stress and disappointment. They’ll be learning to cope with those challenges apart from you, and it can become overwhelming. One study by the University of California at Los Angeles recorded the highest-ever stress levels among college freshmen, especially women. Remind them that reaching out for help is always the right thing to do. Counseling services are typically offered on campus; discuss hotlines devoted to mental health and suicide prevention, as well.

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