Transitioning Home from College for Summer: Tips for a Positive Experience

The end of the academic year brings a significant shift for college students as they transition from campus life back to their family homes for the summer. This shift can be as challenging as it is exciting, requiring adjustments from both the students and their families. 

If you have a child returning home from college in a few short weeks, you may be experiencing mixed emotions. On one hand, you’re happy to have them home and to spend more time with them. On the other hand, you’re concerned about having another “adult” in the home, potentially disrupting your routine and sense of normalcy. 

Below are some helpful strategies for making the transition easier. Even though many parents worry about what the summer will look like, it can be a positive and enriching experience for everyone involved.

Set Expectations Early

Have an open conversation with your student to discuss expectations. Discuss topics such as house rules, responsibilities and schedules. This conversation can help align expectations and prevent misunderstandings. It’s important to recognize that your college-aged child has been living independently and making decisions for themselves, which means their home routines may have changed. The goal is to work out a schedule that works for both you and your child. 

Establish a Balance of Independence and Family Time

After living independently, your child may find it challenging to readjust to family life. You can help with this by respecting your student’s need for independence while still integrating them into the household. Plan family activities that encourage spending time together, like meals or outings, to help strengthen family bonds while respecting your child’s autonomy. No matter how old your child is, he or she can still benefit (and enjoy!) quality family time. 

Encourage Open Communication

Encourage open and honest communication about feelings and expectations. Your child should feel comfortable discussing their experiences at college, including any challenges or achievements. Similarly, you should be able to express your thoughts and concerns. This ongoing dialogue can help you both understand each other’s perspective and create a supportive environment. After all, a lot of change and growth happen during these formative years. It’s new territory for everyone. 

Set Goals for the Summer

Students should consider setting personal and professional goals for the summer. Whether it’s a summer job, internship or volunteer work, having specific objectives can keep them motivated and productive. And, you’ll surely want this during the summer, as you don’t want your child to lie around all day with no responsibilities. 

Plan for Downtime

While it’s beneficial to have goals and activities planned, it’s also important to allow time for relaxation. Students often need time to decompress after the rigors of the academic year. Balancing productivity with rest can help your child recharge before returning to college. You can even benefit from some downtime as you prepare for the busyness of the fall season. 

Encourage New Family Traditions

Summer can be a great time to start new family traditions that include your child, even though they are gone throughout the year. Whether it’s a weekly movie night, a cooking night or a new outdoor activity, creating new traditions can help redefine family dynamics and integrate your child’s new experiences and growth into the family unit. 

Address Changes and Growth

Both students and their families evolve and change. You may see changes in your child's behavior, attitudes or ambitions. Talk to them about their experiences in college, if they are still interested in pursuing their current major and what plans they have after graduation. This keeps you abreast of potential changes and shows that you are interested in your child’s life outside of the home. 

Make the Transition Easier with Mentoring Services 

Some families benefit from mentoring services over the summer. These services can be especially helpful for students who lack discipline and accountability. They can provide your child with structure and consistency over the summer months so that they are productive—and your home remains in order. Bridge The Gap not only offers mentoring for parents, teens and young adults, but also teaches supportive skills that can help individuals succeed and flourish in the real world. 

Transitioning home from college for the summer is a significant change that involves adjustments for both the student and their family. By setting clear expectations, maintaining open communication and fostering an environment of mutual respect and understanding, families can make this transition a positive and rewarding experience. To learn more about receiving support from Bridge The Gap, contact us today at 805-558-4599.