| Communication Central |
Sometimes we are not certain that what we have expressed to our children has been heard. This feeling inevitably seems to arise when there is something very important that we are trying to get across. Our child might roll his or her eyes, seem antsy, or state that he or she already knows all about whatever it is that we are trying to convey. Sound familliar?
In the year immediately leading up to college we usually find ourselves sharing a lot of information and advice with our child. Then our child arrives at college and we wonder which of the things we said made the journey too.
Instead of wondering, consider periodically writing to your student, and use your letters to echo some aspect of what you previously talked about. As you write, remember that less is often more and that a subtle approach can convey volumes. Don't make the central focus of your letter about what concerns you, but rather be creative. I remember my parents would periodically send me cartoons about issues that were on their minds --- a cartoon about finding a job, one about getting enough sleep, etc. Seeing the cartoon would often bring me back to an earlier conversation that we had. Another approach which parents successfully use, is to write about some of their own adventures in college or living away from home. Our children often like to find out new things about us, to be insiders to our past, as they emerge into adulthood. |
| Did you know... |
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The top impediments to academic performance are:
- stress
- cold/flu/sore throat
- sleep difficulties
- concern for friend or family member
- internet use/games
- depression/anxiety disorders
The top four remain unchanged in ACHA-NCHA surveys since 2000.
Cited from: American College Health Association.
American College Health Association-National College Health Assessment II: Reference Group Executive Summary Fall 2008: Baltimore: American College Health Asociation;2009 |
