5 ways to prepare for your student to come home this summer

Having your student home over the summer can be a source of joy and stress. If your student is planning to spend time at home this summer, here are some tips you can use to help them make a smooth transition.  

1. Set boundaries 

Setting clear expectations and boundaries with your student (ideally before they come home) can help everyone have a smoother transition.  

Take some time to talk with your student about the expectations you have while they’re home. Keep in mind that your student’s expectations may differ from your own. For instance, they may not know that you expect them to follow a curfew, help with chores or take on additional responsibilities. If you have differing perspectives, try to come to an agreement or compromise when possible. Talking through these types of expectations and working through differences can help you and your student avoid unwanted conflict. 

It’s also important to maintain open communication with your student. Remember that they may not be in the habit of keeping others updated on their plans. Let your student know that you’d like to hear about what they have planned while they are home. For instance, you may ask them how long they plan to stay, how much time they plan to spend with friends or family and if they have any specific events or activities planned. You should also be open about your own plans and let your student know in advance of family gatherings, activities or other events you expect them to attend. 

2. Prepare for tough conversations 

This summer you may find yourself talking with your student about their grades, major, relationships, substance use, differences in points of view and other potentially difficult topics. If these types of topics come up, it’s best to be prepared in advance. 

Check out these tips to learn how to make the most of tough conversations. 

3. Get into a routine 

Transitioning home may be difficult for some students, especially if their responsibilities, routines and schedules have changed significantly since leaving campus. You can help set them up for success by encouraging them to implement daily routines.  

Here are some ideas you can share with them: 

• Go to bed and wake up at the same time each day 
• Plan out their days in advance 
• Identify activities they can do each day (e.g., taking an evening walk, etc.) 
• Schedule time with friends or family 
• Make space for alone time 
• Identify things they would like to do while they’re home and when they’re able to do them 

4. Find healthy ways to cope 

Spending time with family can be as stressful as it is enjoyable, especially if your student is home for an extended length of time. If you or your student are feeling stressed about your new arrangements, it’s important for both of you to find healthy ways to cope.  

Here are a few strategies you can both try: 

• Have an open conversation with how you’re both doing 
• Seek support from family or friends 
• Be open to compromises 
• Get at least seven to nine hours of sleep each night 
• Stay physically active 
• Spend time with people you love and care about outside of your family 
• Make time for hobbies and activities you enjoy 
• Accept that no family is perfect (you can still love someone even if you don’t like them all the time) 

5. Connect with resources 

If your student is struggling over the summer, there are resources available to help. Be sure to check out all our Health and Wellness summer services.