I still remember the excitement of Parent Weekend. I didn’t like traveling 3000 miles but I did like the time to read newspapers which I always gather at the airport. I went four years and am so grateful I didn’t have to miss them.
Hugs, meals, shopping, stories, laughing, and meeting her new friends are sweet memories. I love those spontaneous conversations that pop up simply from having time together. You will love the community feeling of being around parents and college children for a weekend.
Parents share with me they feel such joy and pride standing in a long time dream that is now a reality for the family.
The other perspective is parents don’t go that weekend. Work, cost is too much. Some send one parent, no sibling or pets. Some choose another weekend when the town goes back to “normal rates.” There are children who don’t care if their parents are part of the weekend. Ask them how they feel and what would help if they do care and you can’t make it.
Students still have papers due and reading, so check in with any of your expectations .
It is worth having to go through more tears as you hug goodbye on Sunday.
Enjoy letting them need and simultaneously, being the sweet, anchor parents that you are. You are their safe harbor.
Have fun,
Natalie
Natalie Caine, M.A. natalie@lifeintransition.org
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