If the college acceptance letters have just begun to come in, congratulations!  You are now officially a college parent.  You are excited for your student, and possibly a bit overwhelmed for yourself.  You’re not sure what you should be thinking about, or doing, or how to help your student prepare for the next phase.

Here at College Parent Central we believe that the more information you have, the better you will be able to support your college student as he navigates his new experiences.  But the problem with lots of information is that it can feel overwhelming.  Here are a few posts that we think might be a good starting point.  You’ll want to read more specific information later, but if you’re a new college parent, these posts should help you think about your new role and help you get started on your journey.   Congratulations!

Your New Role

Yes, You’re a College Parent, But Who Is This College Student?

Yes, You’re a College Parent, but What Exactly Does That Mean?

Your Role as a College Parent: Sideline Coach — Part 1

Your Role as a College Parent: Part 2 — Coaching Inspiration

Your Role as a College Parent: Sideline Coach — Part 3

Affirming ”Helicopter Parents”: Redefining the Title

Affirming ”Helicopter Parents”: A Look in the Mirror

Affirming ”Helicopter Parents”: How to Hover Constructively

Understanding the College World

 

Ten Ways Parents of College Students Can Use the College Website

College Lingo for College Parents: Talk the Talk!

College Lingo for College Parents: Talk the Talk! — Part 2

College Lingo for College Parents: Talk the Talk! — Part 3

College Lingo for College Parents: Talk the Talk! — Part 4

College Lingo for College Parents: Talk the Talk! — Part 5

What FERPA Means for You and Your College Student

Making Sense of Your Student’s College Financial Aid Package

My College Student Received His Financial Aid Package, But What is Federal Work Study?

Some First Steps

 

College Parent Orientation: A Key Beginning

Why Summer Orientation is Important for Your College Freshman

Summer Preparations For Your College Student’s Transition to Freshman Year

Five Conversations You and Your Student Should Have Before the First Year of College

Five More Conversation Starters Before the First Year of College

Eight Life Skills You Should Teach Your College Freshman Before He Heads to College

Ten Parental Habits That Can Negatively Affect Your College Student

How — and Why — to Help Your College Student Create a Budget

Doing Your Homework

The College Catalog: Source of Information for Parents of College Students

Parenting College Students: Recommended Reading List

More Recommended Reading for Parents

Gift Books For College Students: Some Recommendations

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Remember that this new stage of your child’s life is a transition for you as well as for your student.  Be prepared — and enjoy the ride!  Congratulations!