Each year, tens of thousands of testosterone and estrogen fueled students break free from the clutch of their parents to experience the freedom that college life offers. But more than just giving your children the opportunity to experience a higher level of education and hone their skills, university life also gives your young adults the chance to do as they please. Unfortunately, many students are unable to reign in on their freedom and spiral out of control.
As parents, you would like to think that your children are living up to the moral standards that you have taught them no matter where they are, or who they are with. As such, many parents are often blind-sided when they find out that their kids are engrossed in more than just books. The fact is that campuses today have become a place where some students binge on alcohol and other drugs. Recent studies reveal that roughly 1,300 college students per year succumb to an early death because of alcohol and drug use while as many as 2.1 million students have admitted to drinking and driving.
Regardless of whether it is peer pressure or anxiety that drives your children to succumb to these temptations, it is still our duty as parents to find out what goes on behind the walls of our children’s campus.
Being away from our children does not mean to say that our responsibility towards raising them well comes to an end. As parents, we are the ones who are most qualified to help our child fight these negative urges and here we list down some of the most effective steps to do just that.
1. As parents, it is good to understand that our child is now maturing into an adult and as such, learning more about responsibility and consequences is essential. Explain that being an adult comes with obligation, not just to their family but to themselves. Also take this time to educate your child on the ill effects of alcohol and drug addiction and how that addiction can take over their life.
2. Check on your child once a week to make sure that they are doing alright. It doesn’t matter if they think you are nagging, the important thing is that you know what they are doing. Also let your child know that you are just a phone call away.
3. Talk to the campus administrators and learn as much as you can about their school policies and find out if they have campus programs that aim to provide support and assistance to troubled students.
4. Understand the different warning signs of drug and alcohol abuse.
5. Take the time to get to know your child’s roommate and circle of friends. If you feel that they have the potential to negatively influence your child, talk to your child about it.
6. Be an active parent and make sure to attend special events and meetings on campus.
College life is all about self-discovery and growth but the threats of alcohol and drugs can ruin this exciting stage for your child. With your guidance, however, you can help give your child a better fighting chance at reaching their dreams.
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This is more true then some of us would like to admit. As a single mother I actually returned to college in my late 30′s and witnessed the kind alcohol and drug use first hand. Being involved with your children up to and through their adulthood, offering them support and asking questions are great. It’s also important to set a good example.
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Some students adopt the bad habits when they join the college. They feel ndependent. Parents must know how about their children.
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Great work. It was useful for me as a parent to read that! Keep up the good work!