Coming home for the first winter break

When your student comes home for their first winter break, some adjustments may be needed in order to make the experience more enjoyable for both the student and the parent. Parents are often caught off guard by their student’s new-found independence. Your student has had the opportunity to dive into what life looks like when they are in charge. Consider having a conversation and creating clear expectations to make this first winter break as enjoyable and rewarding as it can be.

So, what can you expect?

• Students may be exhausted from the mental and physical pressure they have been under for finals week. Sleep may be at the top of their to-do list. This is OK! Let them sleep.
• Have a heart-to-heart with your student about expectations for schedules, housework, family gatherings, etc. This will help you both decide what is acceptable for the month while they are home. Remember, they have been living on their own and making their own decisions. It can be hard for them to adjust to being back under the supervision of their parents.
• Is catching up with high school friends of top priority? This is actually a very healthy response and helps them maintain long-distance friendships. Let them go.
• Curious about your student’s first semester grades? Remember that under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) students maintain formal control of their educational records and parents are only allowed to have access to records and grades with formal written approval. The best way to find out how they are doing academically is to ask them.
• Don’t be alarmed if your student is referring to CSU as “home.” This means that they are finding their place and feel comfortable at Charleston Southern – and it is a GOOD thing.

Remember that winter break only lasts so long. Make the most of the time you have with your student and your family. Stock them up on snacks and make sure that they leave feeling refreshed and rejuvenated for a new semester. We hope you have a wonderful Christmas season. Go Bucs!