As that time of year approaches, social media fills with emotional posts from parents bidding farewell to their newly independent graduates. It’s a bittersweet moment, one I experienced myself just last year when my eldest, Jake, set off for college on a baseball scholarship, leaving our sunny California home for the chilly Midwest.
The day before his departure, I shared a nostalgic photo on social media of his packed suitcases, which led to a well-meaning but confusing comment from a fellow mom about how “exciting” this milestone was. Exciting for him, perhaps, but for me? My child was leaving home!
As summer swiftly fades and you prepare for the inevitable change, here’s the good news: In many ways, your relationship remains unchanged.
- Communication Persists
During my college years, I cherished my weekly phone call with my mom, a ritual I never missed. Fast forward to today, and technology has made staying in touch even easier. With daily texts and weekly calls from Jake, I feel connected. Plus, during football season, we’d spend hours on video calls, where I pointed the camera at the TV so he could watch his favorite team from afar. - Sibling Rivalries Continue
When Jake left for college, I thought I might miss the constant bickering between him and his younger brother at dinner. Yet, the moment we gathered for a meal around the empty chair, I realized how much I missed that lively chaos. Thankfully, Thanksgiving dinner brought back the familiar banter, reminding me that some things never change—even if I just wanted to enjoy a quiet bite of roast beef without interruptions. - The Fridge is Still Fair Game
Whether your child attends a local university or a prestigious institution, cafeteria food will never win any culinary awards. After enduring questionable meals, the moment they return home, it’s as if they’re magnetically drawn to your fridge and pantry. It makes me wonder if the so-called Freshman 15 is actually gained during those home visits when they load up on mom’s cooking! - They Still Rely on You
Even from 1,700 miles away, Jake still turns to me for help. Whether it’s troubleshooting car troubles or fundraising for his baseball team, he knows I’m just a phone call away. Likewise, he shares his victories with me—like hitting a home run or excelling in a tough class—reminding me that despite the distance, he still values my support. - Homecomings are Inevitable
Let’s be honest: while it’s a big step for them, heading to college isn’t the end of the line. Many will return home for the holidays or even sooner if they run out of clean clothes! Before you know it, they’ll come back with bags full of laundry, announcing, “I’m back for the summer!”
While your child might seem a bit older and more independent, they still need you just as much. This new phase of life is not just about them growing up; it’s also about you adapting to this exciting journey together. As you navigate this transition, remember that you’re not alone—other parents are experiencing similar challenges and joys.
For more insights into navigating parenthood, check out our piece on the home insemination kit to understand the diverse paths to parenthood. If you’re seeking authoritative resources on parenting, the LGBT parenting guide can offer valuable perspectives. Additionally, for health-related information, visit MedlinePlus for reliable resources on pregnancy and home insemination.
In summary, while your child may be off to college, many aspects of your relationship remain the same, providing comfort as you both navigate this new chapter together.