Sending your kids off to college is one of the most emotional journeys a parent can go through. You’re bursting with pride, a little anxious, and if you’re like me, you’ll probably shed a few (or a lot of) tears. As a mom of three daughters who are all now in college, I can tell you—it’s a wild ride, full of lessons I learned the hard way.
Looking back, there are so many things I wish I’d known before they packed their bags and headed out. While I can’t turn back time, I can share my experience and tips to help you prepare for this exciting chapter with your kids. Trust me, it’s a learning curve, but it’s also one of the most rewarding journeys you’ll ever take.
Start Preparing Early
Here’s the thing about preparing for college: you need more time than you think. When my oldest started talking about where she wanted to go, I figured we had plenty of time to get things in order. But between researching schools, understanding applications, and navigating financial aid, we were overwhelmed in no time.
By the time my youngest was applying, I had finally figured it out—a college prep timeline was our secret weapon. We broke it down into manageable tasks, like scheduling campus tours, gathering recommendation letters, and submitting applications ahead of deadlines.
My advice: Start the process earlier than you think you need to. Even a little research can save you so much stress later on.
Understand Financial Aid Options
Can I be honest? FAFSA terrified me the first time. Financial aid is no joke—it’s a maze of acronyms, deadlines, and paperwork. I wish someone had told me to start learning about it early. There are so many opportunities to reduce the financial burden, but you have to know where to look.
Grants, scholarships, work-study programs, federal loans—it’s a lot to take in. Familiarizing yourself with the basics of financial aid can help you make smarter decisions for your family.
For example, I discovered scholarships that were specific to our state and some niche ones my daughters qualified for based on their interests. The lesson here? Research, research, research!
Pro Tip: Don’t hesitate to reach out to the school’s financial aid office. They’re there to help and can clarify any confusing details.
Encourage Independence
As much as we want to help our kids, college is the time for them to start taking the reins. Before they left, I spent time teaching my daughters life skills like budgeting, cooking simple meals, and yes, doing laundry (because detergent pods are not foolproof).
Looking back, I wish I had started encouraging their independence sooner. Letting them take charge of their schedules or handle small responsibilities around the house was a great way to prepare them for managing their own lives in college.
One thing that really worked for us was setting up a monthly “money talk” before they left. It gave them a better understanding of how to track spending and make smart financial choices.
Communicate Openly
If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: open communication makes everything easier. Before my girls left, we had heart-to-heart conversations about their fears, expectations, and even the little stuff, like what snacks to pack for their dorm rooms.
By the time they were settling into their routines, I made sure they knew I was just a phone call or text away. Whether they needed advice or just wanted to vent, I wanted them to feel supported.
Mom Tip: Set up a weekly “check-in” time. It helps you stay connected without hovering.
Explore Campus Resources
Did you know most colleges offer a ton of resources for students? From free tutoring and academic advising to mental health services and career counseling, there’s so much support available.
I’ll admit, I didn’t push my oldest to explore these resources early on. By the time my middle daughter started, I knew better and encouraged her to check out the writing center, student groups, and wellness programs. The sooner they know what’s available, the more confident they’ll feel about navigating challenges.
Help Them Build a Support System
College can feel intimidating, especially in the beginning. My daughters quickly learned the importance of forming connections with peers, professors, and mentors.
For one of my girls, joining a campus club was a game-changer. For another, it was connecting with professors during office hours that helped her feel less lost in the crowd. Encourage your kids to step out of their comfort zones and build a support system—they’ll thank you for it later.
Visit the Campus Together
Taking the time to visit campus before the semester starts can make a huge difference. Touring the library, dining halls, and dorms with my daughters not only helped them feel more at home but also gave me peace of mind.
One of my favorite memories is sitting in a campus café with my youngest, imagining all the amazing things she’d experience there. It’s a bittersweet moment, but one you’ll treasure.
Prepare for Emotional Ups and Downs
College is an emotional rollercoaster. Homesickness, self-doubt, and even moments of feeling overwhelmed are normal. What helped my daughters was knowing they could reach out to me anytime—even if it was just to cry over a tough exam or share their latest win.
Before they left, we talked about coping strategies, like finding a quiet spot to recharge or joining a club that matched their interests.
Remember: Let them know it’s okay to struggle, and that you’re there for them no matter what.
Celebrate Every Achievement
College is full of milestones, and every win deserves recognition. Whether it’s acing their first big test or landing a part-time job, celebrating those wins is so important. A simple “I’m proud of you” goes a long way in boosting their confidence and helping them push through challenges.
For bigger achievements, like an internship or making the dean’s list, go all out—a celebratory dinner or a heartfelt toast can mean the world. These moments of recognition not only motivate your child but also strengthen your bond, showing them that no matter how far they are, you’re always cheering them on. Every victory, big or small, is a step worth celebrating together.
Closing Thoughts
Being a college mom is a journey—one filled with tears, laughter, and lots of learning. Reflecting on my experience, I’ve realized that the best thing we can do is prepare as much as possible, stay flexible, and keep cheering them on.
If you’re about to send your child off to college, know this: you’ve done an amazing job raising them, and they’re about to embark on an incredible adventure. Cherish these moments and trust that they’ll figure things out (even if it takes a few loads of laundry to get there).
What’s one thing you wish you’d known before your kids started college? Share your stories in the comments—I’d love to hear them!
What are your thoughts about the Things I Wish I Knew Before My Children Started College. Please share in the comments below. I really would love to know.
Until next time, shine amongst the stars!
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My eldest went straight into work instead of college but there really is a lot to think about isn’t there
This is a great post, I had to learn all these things so that my son would be excited to go to college, since I never had the opportunity to go to college for myself.
This is a very practical list of things to know for parents before their kids go to college. Preparing for college surely takes a lot of time.