Finding Your Way After College Drop-Off

There’s something about the end of summer that feels heavier when you have a child heading off to college. You spend months helping them shop for dorm essentials, making sure they’re ready for the transition, and then suddenly the house is quieter than it’s ever been. It’s exciting to watch them step into independence, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy (at all) to adjust on your end.

The truth is, this season comes with a big mix of emotions. Pride and joy are woven right alongside sadness and uncertainty. Many parents are surprised at how much it hits once the day actually arrives. That first drive home without them, the empty chair at the dinner table, even the silence in their room; it all feels so different. Knowing these feelings are normal helps, but there are also some practical things you can do to help yourself and your other family members adjust.

Here are a few ideas to lean on during those first weeks:

Stay connected in simple ways. A quick text or a funny meme can go a long way without overwhelming your student, and remind them they aren’t alone.

Give yourself something new to look forward to. Start a hobby, join a class, or plan weekend outings that fill some of that open space. Yes, it’s okay to cry through these things!

Lean on your support system. Talk with other parents who have been through it, or even join a parent group for encouragement.

Create small rituals at home. Cook their favorite meal once in a while, and help make new traditions, like FaceTiming once a week on Sundays, or including them in family group chats.

Allow yourself to grieve. Missing your newly-minted college student is a natural part of loving them deeply!

Over time, the adjustment gets easier (at least, that’s what I’ve heard. I’ll report back when I am bawling my eyes out over my own kiddos leaving!). The first weeks are often the hardest, but slowly you’ll find a rhythm in this new normal. What once felt unbearably quiet starts to feel like a chance to rest, and the moments when you do connect with your student become even more meaningful. One of the most helpful reminders that I’ve heard from other parents is that this season is a transition for both of you. Your child is growing into adulthood, and you’re growing into a new chapter of parenthood. Both sides require grace and patience. It’s okay to feel proud and heartbroken at the same time. That’s just what love looks like when it’s stretching into something new.

If you’re walking through senior year right now, take the time to capture it while you can. Those photos will mean everything when the dorm room feels too quiet or you’re missing the sound of their laughter echoing through the house. Let’s create images that will hold you steady in the sweetest ways when it’s your turn to say goodbye.

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Finding Your Way After College Drop-Off

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