The days leading up to college send-off can be extremely busy and filled with a wide range of emotions, a combination that can lead to less-than-ideal communications between parent and child.
As parents, writing a heartfelt send-off letter is one way to share feelings, reflections, and hopes that haven’t yet been fully or clearly expressed. It’s also an opportunity to impart a bit of wisdom as well. This type of letter may become a cherished keepsake for your child, offering comfort and guidance as they embark on their new journey. And it can certainly bring you a sense of comfort as well if you retain a copy for yourself to look back on from time to time.
10 topics to consider including when drafting a send-off letter to your college freshman.
1. Expressions of Pride: You might begin your letter by expressing just how proud you are of your child by acknowledging their hard work and particular milestones that have helped them get to this point in time. If they, like others, faced challenges along the way, recognizing their resilience and perseverance can help fuel their confidence as they prepare to soon dip their toes in uncharted waters.
2. Memories and Reflections: Consider highlighting special moments, family traditions, or funny anecdotes that have helped shape their childhood and your bond. Cherished memories and/or a mention of a favorite word or phrase may not only bring a smile to their face while away from home but also serve as a reminder to you of the type of foundation you helped build.
3. Confidence in their Abilities and Judgment: Expressing your confidence in your child’s abilities and judgment will go a long way as they embark on a social and academic journey unlike any they’ve experienced to date. In addition to reminding them of other strengths if you wish, consider noting specific aspects of their personality and character that you know will help them to have a favorable college experience. And, to serve as a reminder of their good judgment, consider mentioning one or more examples of decisions they’ve made that have led to positive outcomes.
4. Words of Wisdom: Gently offering advice to help them navigate the new chapter they are about to enter can be helpful as well. This could include guidance that you wish had been shared with you as you embarked on higher education or at some other turning point in your life. Wisdom gained from your own experiences can be incredibly valuable especially when you share the context in which you acquired the knowledge.
5. Encouragement to Explore: Encouraging your child to step out of their comfort zone, keep an open mind, and embrace many of the different opportunities that will undoubtedly come their way can be valuable at the outset. You may consider reminding your child that it’s okay to not know exactly what they want to study and/or to change their mind along the way as they learn more about themselves and their interests through exploration.
6. Affirmation of Their Identity: Reinforcing the importance of staying true to themselves and their values is not only useful advice but is a reminder to your child that you affirm the person they are and the principles they hold dear. Your affirmation can provide a grounding influence during what will surely be a continued time of self-discovery while at college.
7. Reminder of the Importance of Self-Care: Reminding your child of the importance of self-care and the value of seeking help when needed can be an important addition to any send-off letter. After all, college life can be demanding and with a desire to perform well, students sometimes overlook the importance of maintaining strong physical and mental health. A reminder from you to take time to relax, recharge, and look after their selves can go a very long way.
8. Reassurance of Unwavering Support: Letting your child know that no matter where they are or what they face, your support will remain constant is essential. This reassurance can be incredibly comforting as they navigate the challenges of college life. Knowing that they have a solid support system back home can give them the confidence to face whatever the future may hold.
9. Assurance of Your Well-being: Reassuring your soon-to-be freshman that you and others they are temporarily leaving will be fine can provide added comfort as they step away. Consider providing a favorable glimpse of what life will likely look like on your end in their absence to help address any concerns they may have.
10. Excitement for Their Future: Expressing your excitement for their future and the adventures that lies ahead can be a wonderful way to wrap up your send-off letter. This positive outlook can help them feel even more optimistic about the journey they are about to undertake.
Conclusion:
A farewell letter to your college-bound child can be a lasting token of your love, pride, and support. This letter may serve as a comforting reminder of home and a source of strength as they embark on this new chapter.
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