While students are often well prepared academically to begin post-secondary studies, they still might need to develop the resilience and problem solving skills to transition to this new chapter in their life. As parents we often anticipate our children’s needs, stay one step ahead, and want to ‘fix’ any challenge that might arise, but whether your child is beginning post-secondary studies this fall, or is in their later years of high school, now is a great time to help them develop the ability to not only handle stressful situations well, but bounce back stronger than before from them. Despite our best efforts, we cannot shield them from the obstacles and challenges that they will encounter in the years ahead. We can help them develop strong coping skills and give them to tools to confidently navigate difficult situations.
1. Enhance Problem Solving Skills
Don’t just focus on solutions – state the problem, brainstorm together, list potential solutions, review pros/cons, and then choose a solution.
2. Let them know to ask for help
Help your child find resources that will help them succeed. During this new online learning model, they need to develop strong communication skills to connect with teachers and stay on task.
All post-secondary institutions have academic support services, counselling services, residence advisors, research these together online before they go.
3. Develop healthy coping skills & resilience
Teach the skills and help instill the confidence in your child to work through difficult situations. Letting them know you believe in their decision making abilities can help.
Knowing how to communicate with professors, dealing with a challenging roommate, and managing feelings of home-sickness all require this skill set.
4. Encourage goal setting
This builds confidence and helps develop executive functioning skills.
5. Talk budgets
Where does the money go? Learn to track spending and how this aligns with monthly income.
6. Discuss expectations – academic and social.
Attend all classes
What does a study plan look like and how to balance this with social activities
What happens if you fail a class
7. Encourage resilience
Letting your child work through some challenges on their own allows them to develop self-esteem and confidence in their own abilities.
8. Create a packing list
What do you need to be well prepared for post-secondary studies and dorm living?
9. Attend an Options Solutions workshop to prepare for the start of the school year
Intro to University Level Writing – prepares students bound for post-secondary for the challenges of writing for different disciplines at the university level. It discusses strategies for successful research, critical thinking, and writing while giving students a chance to practice these skills and receive individualized feedback.
How to Rock Your First Semester – explores organizational strategies and help students gain a better understanding of the resources available to post-secondary students. It will also address how to communicate with professors and teaching assistants, how to make use of a course outline, and how to set goals and practice effective time management.
University Executive Functioning Workshop – helps students set achievable goals and create a variety of supplementary schedules using their course outlines. They will also review work and recreation balance, time-management strategies, and test-taking skills.
