You may want to call or text them every hour, but letting them breathe is important for their development. What is your role as a parent in these circumstances?
Here’s how to stay close to your kids despite the distance.
Send them little treats
We know that we eat poorly in student houses. So your children will need something extra. Send them homemade cookies and other sweet treats that they probably miss or can’t afford. Continue the tradition by sending them their favorite Thanksgiving dessert and Halloween candy.
Surprise them with a cash gift
For a student, there is nothing better than having €25 or €50 more in your pocket. Give your kids a surprise transfer, with a note inviting them to go out with their friends and have fun! You can easily make an electronic transfer with a mobile banking app or online banking.
Think about projects
When your children come home for the holidays, plan activities now so they can look forward to the holidays. Without giving up traditional activities such as cooking or skiing, you get off the beaten track.
Speaking of money
Now that your children are in college, it’s important to talk to them about money to ensure they’re spending wisely. Ask them if they can stick to their budget or if they are surprised by the high cost of textbooks or extracurricular activities. Talk to them about how they use their credit cards and make sure they know how to pay their bills online without missing a single monthly payment. Would you like to discuss the possibility of a job for after-school or summer students or applying for a scholarship or grant? Finally, encourage them to talk to you about any short- or long-term financial concerns, such as paying for textbooks or finding a job after school. If money is a concern for them, they will feel relieved to confide in you.
University is a crucial period in which young people gradually mature and get to know themselves better. Many people then distance themselves from their parents or are so preoccupied with their studies that calling home is no longer a priority. Divorce is not easy to deal with, but don’t worry, they will come back.
This article is intended to provide general information only and is not intended to provide legal, financial or other professional advice. Please consult a professional advisor regarding your specific situation. The information presented is believed to be factual and current, but we cannot guarantee its accuracy and should not be considered an exhaustive analysis of the topics discussed. The opinions expressed reflect the judgment of the authors as of the date of publication and are subject to change. Royal Bank of Canada and its entities neither expressly nor implicitly promote the advice, opinions, information, products or services of third parties.
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