Hey there, friends! Can you believe it’s already holiday break? I had a chat with a buddy earlier today that got me thinking, and I want to share some insights for those of us who have gone through the experience of welcoming a college freshman back home after their first semester.
When my kids returned home for the holidays after that emotional drop-off, I noticed they were often: exhausted, stressed, and just plain worn out. They might come back with a pile of laundry, but they’re also juggling homework, group projects, and the looming threat of finals — and remember, they’ll be heading back to campus soon after the break.
One thing to keep in mind is that your child may prefer to catch up with their friends rather than spend all their time with you. While it’s tough to accept, it’s a part of this transitional phase in their lives. Social media plays a huge role during this time as they scroll through everyone else’s highlight reels, which can lead to feelings of insecurity or overwhelm. They might wonder: “Are my friends really having more fun? Do they have a ton of new friends? Am I the only one feeling lost?”
It’s easy to want to document their return with photos for social media or have extended family eagerly waiting to hear every detail about their college life. However, your kid might just need some space to decompress, and that’s perfectly normal.
Believe it or not, they will have changed quite a bit since you last saw them. They’ve been managing their own schedules, living without curfews, and indulging in late-night snacks. This newfound independence can be both exhilarating and challenging. Classes may not be as easy as they expected; those A’s and B’s may not be coming as easily as they did in high school. Plus, they’ve made new connections that you might not be aware of.
So, what’s my advice?
Let them enjoy some extra sleep. Avoid bombarding them with questions. Embrace them tightly and shower them with love. There may be some bumps when they come home, but offering them grace and patience is a wonderful gift. Everything will turn out just fine.
For more insights into navigating these transitions, you might find this post on home insemination helpful, which touches on related themes of change and adjustment. Also, if you’re interested in understanding more about pregnancy resources, check out this excellent guide on pregnancy week by week.
In summary, when your college kid comes home for the holidays, remember to give them the space they need to adjust, while also cherishing the time together. They’ve grown and changed, and a gentle approach will help ease the transition for both of you.