5 Things That Stay the Same When Your Kids Head to College

Ah, that time of year again! Social media is flooded with emotional posts from teary-eyed parents as their high school seniors toss their caps in the air and step into a new world of independence. I remember when my own son, Jake, packed his bags for college halfway across the country, and let me tell you, it felt like a lifetime of emotions bursting all at once.

Just the day before he left sunny California for chilly South Dakota, I shared a nostalgic photo of his packed luggage on Facebook. That’s when an older, wiser friend chimed in about how “thrilling” this chapter would be. Honestly? I was a bit taken aback. Exciting for him, maybe, but for me? My baby was leaving home!

Trust me, parents, summer will vanish quicker than you can say “Do your homework!” So stock up on those jumbo packs of tissues and keep your calendar busy during those first few weeks. But here’s the silver lining: when your kiddo heads off to college, a lot stays the same.

1. They Still Reach Out

During my college days, nothing was more comforting than my weekly call home. Fast forward to today, and technology makes it even easier. My son Jake and I text almost daily, and he calls regularly. Plus, our Sunday “virtual hangouts” during football season, where he watches the game via FaceTime, feel like cherished bonding moments.

2. Sibling Rivalries Persist

When Jake left, I thought I’d miss the endless squabbling between my kids. But after one family dinner without him, I found myself yearning for that familiar chaos. Not to worry! Thanksgiving dinner brought it all back in spades, with the inevitable banter erupting before I could even finish my first bite!

3. They Still Raid Your Kitchen

Whether they’re at a local college or a prestigious university, cafeteria food can be quite the letdown. Your kid will likely come home and make a beeline for the fridge. After enduring bland meals, they’ll be craving home-cooked goodness. It’s made me reconsider that Freshman 15; maybe it’s really a Homecoming 15!

4. They Need You Just as Much

Even from 1,700 miles away, when Jake’s truck wouldn’t start in freezing temperatures, he called me for advice. He still leans on me for support, whether it’s a fundraising request or sharing his latest achievements. No matter how far apart we are, I’m still his go-to cheerleader.

5. Homecomings Are Inevitable

Let’s be real: things could be worse. They’re not packing up and moving abroad or walking down the aisle. College is just a stepping stone, and most will return home by Thanksgiving—or sooner if they need clean laundry! Before you know it, they’ll show up with bags of dirty clothes, heralding the start of summer.

And while they may seem the same, they also come back with new experiences and wisdom, navigating their path toward adulthood. It’s a bittersweet journey we’re all on together—sometimes reluctantly, but always with love.

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In summary, while sending your kid off to college comes with its challenges, many things remain the same, and that’s something to celebrate!