Category Archives: parenting

When a School Shooting Hits Home

school shooting

When news breaks about a school shooting on a college campus, it lands differently for families. Even if the incident occurs far from home, it can feel uncomfortably close, especially for parents with teens who are already in college or preparing to go.

The recent shooting at Brown University forces many families to confront a painful reality: college campuses, once widely viewed as safe and sheltered environments, are not immune to violence. For parents and students alike, the emotional impact can be immediate and overwhelming.

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Top College-Related Searches Parents Made in 2025

college-related searches

If you’ve been helping your teen prepare for college, chances are your Google search history looks a lot like most parents’ right now. From the cost of college to the turbulence around the 2024–25 FAFSA rollout, certain topics are spiking in search because families want clarity fast.

Here’s a roundup of the top college-related searches (and why). More importantly, you’ll find what you can do to get ahead of the stress and support your student confidently.

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How Online Learning Can Transform Your Financial Habits

online learning

There are a few tried and tested ways to transform your financial habits, but no one ever really thinks about how online learning can help. There are many advantages to learning online that help with money, including learning how to budget better, and greater freedom and flexibility.

Better Financial Literacy

You can use online courses to learn the basics of financial literacy with concepts like compound interest, inflation, and even risk management. When you have foundational knowledge like this, the rest kind of falls into place and becomes much clearer. As a result, you can make informed decisions based on data and experience instead of feeling. The College Investor and other sites like it also have tons of informative articles you can use to get a head start.

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Teaching Your College-Bound Teen About Safety Beyond Campus

safety beyond campus

As your teenager prepares for college, the excitement of new independence comes with significant responsibility for personal safety. While campus security receives considerable attention, the surrounding community raises equally important considerations about safety beyond campus. 

College students frequently venture off-campus for social activities, employment, shopping, and entertainment, exposing them to unfamiliar environments and situations. Many students have limited experience navigating urban areas independently or recognizing potentially dangerous situations. 

Equipping your college-bound teen with comprehensive safety knowledge extends far beyond self-defense basics. It includes digital security, transportation safety, financial protection, and situational awareness. These conversations may feel uncomfortable, but they’re essential preparation for the independence and decision-making your student will face. 

This article discusses the essential safety topics every parent should cover before their teen heads off to college.

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Practical Ways Parents Can Ease Their Child’s College Transition

college transition

Starting college is one of the most defining moments in a young adult’s life. It brings excitement, independence, and uncertainty at the same time. For parents, this shift can feel equally emotional as they watch their child step into adulthood. Offering steady support during this time can make the college transition less overwhelming for both.

Adjusting to college life is often challenging, especially during the first year. Many students struggle to balance academics, friendships, and self-care. A recent CollegeData survey found that one in five freshmen faced difficulty maintaining life balance. This shows why parental guidance is vital for a smoother transition.

Parents play a key role in helping their children adapt with confidence and clarity. By maintaining open communication and offering reassurance, they can help reduce stress and nurture emotional resilience. 

In this blog post, we’ll discuss effective ways parents can support their child’s adjustment and success in college.

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How Parents Can Help Their Children Return to College After a Chronic Illness

chronic illness

Watching your child recover from a chronic illness and prepare to return to college can be both inspiring and emotional. As a parent, your involvement plays a vital role in helping them rebuild confidence and adjust to academic life again. Finding the right balance between independence and support ensures they thrive physically, mentally, and socially.

Many young adults returning to college after illness experience challenges like fatigue, anxiety, or social adjustment. A study in the National Library of Medicine found that many experienced both physical strain and emotional stress. Despite trying to manage their condition well, some missed classes or struggled socially. While some received help from disability services, others found the support unclear or insufficient. 

Chronic illness, whether physical or mental, affects far more than health alone. With consistent encouragement, communication, and preparation, parents can help their children ease back into campus life with stability and optimism. 

This article highlights practical steps to support your child’s successful college comeback.

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College Prep Tips from a Parent Who’s Been There

college prep

Let’s be honest, if you’re a parent with a kid prepping for college, it can feel like you’re riding a roller coaster you never bought tickets for. As someone who’s now watched both my kids go through college prep and come out on the other side, I know just how wild the season can get. College stuff takes over: SATs, essays, applications, and everyone stressing about whether you’re doing enough. But trust me, there are ways to make it easier on both you and your student and maybe even enjoy the ride a little. Here’s what I learned along the way.

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When College Feels Less Safe: What Parents Are Worried About After the Charlie Kirk Tragedy

charlie kirk

On September 10, 2025, conservative activist Charlie Kirk was shot at a public event on the campus of Utah Valley University. The suspect reportedly fired from a rooftop, striking him in the neck during an outdoor speech attended by thousands.

For many parents, this event has stirred deep fears about what safety means in higher education today. Below are some of the main concerns parents are grappling with — and what they might do in response.

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Back-to-School Tips for Parents of High School Students

BACK-TO-SCHOOL TIPS

The new school year is here, and high school students face the challenge of balancing academics, extracurriculars, and social life. As a parent, your support can make a huge difference. These practical back-to-school tips can help your teen thrive this year.

1. Set a Consistent Routine

A predictable daily schedule keeps teens on track. Encourage regular sleep, meal, and study times, along with planned breaks. A consistent routine reduces stress and improves focus.

2. Create an Organized Study Space

A quiet, clutter-free study area helps your teen concentrate. Make sure they have good lighting, necessary supplies, and minimal distractions. Personalize the space to suit their learning style.

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A Parent’s Guide to Starting College

starting college

Watching your child leave for college brings a mix of pride and worry, which is completely natural as a parent. 

It is a significant shift for everyone involved, from you as parents, your child who is leaving, and any other children you have at home. 

Daily routines change. Conversations become less frequent. You want to support your child but also help them become independent. 

Think of it like teaching your child to drive. At some point, they steer on their own. With precise planning and communication, this transition can be easier for both of you.

Below is a parent’s guide to starting college:

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