Divorced-Parents-Sending-Your-Kids-to-College
This past weekend we brought our oldest daughter back to college. As she walked us back to our car before we headed out to the highway, I suddenly found myself with feelings of nostalgia and sadness. As I drove home, my mind kept mulling over what words of advice I could give–as both a father and a Chicago divorce attorney–to other parents who are dropping off their sons and daughters at college. I realized that it really doesn’t matter whether a child is brought up in a single parent home, in a marriage, or in a blended family
Speaking as both a father and a family law attorney, I came up with the following four tips to help parents and their children adjust to college and cope with separating:
Trust Your Children. This may be one of the hardest things to say and do as a parent. If your child has been raised to act in a responsible and respectful manner, then you should trust that he or she will make the right decisions as they mature into adulthood. Of course, continue to give them guidance and support as they confront the many options and choices that exist in college. Their “upbringing” doesn’t end with high school.
Give them Space and Freedom to Grow Up. Encourage your child to make new friendships and to explore the various resources that are available to them in their new community
Stay-in-Touch. With texting, emailing and Facebook, it is easier than ever to keep in contact with your child. Don’t be afraid to call him or her on their cell phones too. They may surprise you. They may even be delighted to hear your voice and “unload” on you!
Know that it is Okay to Miss your Child. You could even miss seeing their friends. Remind yourself that it is not just you–but probably your son or daughter as well–who may feel a sense of longing or even melancholy over how quickly the years have gone by. Don’t be afraid to share these feelings.
Ultimately, this is an exciting passage of life for everyone in your family. Good luck to all of you–whether this is your first, second, or last child leaving the nest!
Michael C. Craven is a well-known divorce attorney in Chicago, CPA and a partner of the law firm, Beermann Pritikin Mirabelli Swerdlove LLP. (Formerly of Beermann, now a Partner at Harrison LLP) located in the Chicago area. He is highly respected among other divorce attorneys, judges and his clients. He also holds a Master of Tax Law Degree (LLM). For more information about his services, contact Michael at mcraven@harrisonheld.com or at Divorce Lawyers Chicago
