The holidays are here, and your college kids are home! It’s a joyful (and slightly chaotic) time when your not-so-little ones bring their backpacks, stories, and a semester’s worth of laundry. But as much as you’ve missed them, they’re probably feeling a mix of exhaustion, relief, and maybe a little anxiety about what’s next. Here’s how to support and encourage them while keeping your sanity intact:
1. Give Them Time to RestThey’re coming off finals, late nights, and non-stop schedules. Let them sleep in (even if it drives you nuts) and don’t overbook the first few days.
2. Celebrate Their WinsAsk about their semester and cheer them on for the big and small victories—whether it’s acing a tough class or making it through without running out of meal plan points.
3. Be a Safe Space for FailuresIf the semester didn’t go as planned, let them know it’s okay. Avoid judgment and focus on how they can move forward.
4. Set Realistic ExpectationsTalk early about family plans and traditions. Let them know what’s non-negotiable (like Christmas dinner) and where they can have flexibility.
5. Don’t Overload Their ScheduleBetween catching up with high school friends and recharging at home, your college student’s time is limited. Be mindful of how much you expect them to do.
6. Keep the Pantry StockedIt’s no secret—they’re hungry. Make sure you have their favorite snacks and meals on hand. Bonus points for asking what they missed most!
7. Give Them Space to Be ThemselvesCollege changes people. If they’ve picked up new habits, opinions, or even slang, try to embrace it.
8. Have an Honest Money TalkDiscuss budgeting for the next semester without making them feel like they’re being audited. Offer guidance on saving, spending, and stretching those dollars.
9. Encourage Healthy HabitsSupport their mental and physical health by encouraging walks, downtime, or even a trip to the gym together. But don’t nag—they’re adults now.
10. Plan a Low-Key Family DayWhether it’s a movie marathon, baking cookies, or driving around to see Christmas lights, create an opportunity for relaxed family time.
11. Revisit Chores (Gently)Yes, they’re adults now, but they’re still part of the family. Set clear (and reasonable) expectations about pitching in around the house.
12. Keep Communication OpenAsk open-ended questions about their semester, friends, and plans. Show interest without prying.
13. Don’t Forget Their SiblingsIf you have younger kids, help them adjust to the changes when their older sibling comes home. Make sure everyone feels included.
14. Respect Their IndependenceThey’ve been living on their own, making decisions. Don’t micromanage, but be there when they need advice.
15. Set Boundaries Around SocializingIt’s natural for them to want to catch up with friends, but make sure they’re balancing time with family, too.
16. Address Academic Plans ThoughtfullyIf they’re switching majors or struggling, talk about it in a supportive way. Help them focus on solutions instead of dwelling on stress.
17. Talk About the Future (But Not Too Much)Ask about their plans for the next semester, summer internships, or jobs, but don’t overwhelm them with questions.
18. Be Flexible with Family TraditionsIf they’re not as enthusiastic about every tradition, try to compromise. The goal is to create joy, not stress.
19. Pray for ThemCollege is hard. Pray for their rest, renewal, and wisdom in the semester ahead. Let them know you’re lifting them up in faith.
20. Soak It All InAmid the chaos, remember how special it is to have everyone home. These moments are fleeting, so embrace the mess, the noise, and the laughter.
Supporting your college kids during Christmas break isn’t about hovering or fixing everything—it’s about being there for them in a way that feels like home. With a little grace, some patience, and a lot of love, you can make this holiday season one they’ll treasure forever.
#ChristmasWithCollegeKids #MomTips #SupportAndEncourage #HomeForTheHolidays
1. Give Them Time to RestThey’re coming off finals, late nights, and non-stop schedules. Let them sleep in (even if it drives you nuts) and don’t overbook the first few days.
2. Celebrate Their WinsAsk about their semester and cheer them on for the big and small victories—whether it’s acing a tough class or making it through without running out of meal plan points.
3. Be a Safe Space for FailuresIf the semester didn’t go as planned, let them know it’s okay. Avoid judgment and focus on how they can move forward.
4. Set Realistic ExpectationsTalk early about family plans and traditions. Let them know what’s non-negotiable (like Christmas dinner) and where they can have flexibility.
5. Don’t Overload Their ScheduleBetween catching up with high school friends and recharging at home, your college student’s time is limited. Be mindful of how much you expect them to do.
6. Keep the Pantry StockedIt’s no secret—they’re hungry. Make sure you have their favorite snacks and meals on hand. Bonus points for asking what they missed most!
7. Give Them Space to Be ThemselvesCollege changes people. If they’ve picked up new habits, opinions, or even slang, try to embrace it.
8. Have an Honest Money TalkDiscuss budgeting for the next semester without making them feel like they’re being audited. Offer guidance on saving, spending, and stretching those dollars.
9. Encourage Healthy HabitsSupport their mental and physical health by encouraging walks, downtime, or even a trip to the gym together. But don’t nag—they’re adults now.
10. Plan a Low-Key Family DayWhether it’s a movie marathon, baking cookies, or driving around to see Christmas lights, create an opportunity for relaxed family time.
11. Revisit Chores (Gently)Yes, they’re adults now, but they’re still part of the family. Set clear (and reasonable) expectations about pitching in around the house.
12. Keep Communication OpenAsk open-ended questions about their semester, friends, and plans. Show interest without prying.
13. Don’t Forget Their SiblingsIf you have younger kids, help them adjust to the changes when their older sibling comes home. Make sure everyone feels included.
14. Respect Their IndependenceThey’ve been living on their own, making decisions. Don’t micromanage, but be there when they need advice.
15. Set Boundaries Around SocializingIt’s natural for them to want to catch up with friends, but make sure they’re balancing time with family, too.
16. Address Academic Plans ThoughtfullyIf they’re switching majors or struggling, talk about it in a supportive way. Help them focus on solutions instead of dwelling on stress.
17. Talk About the Future (But Not Too Much)Ask about their plans for the next semester, summer internships, or jobs, but don’t overwhelm them with questions.
18. Be Flexible with Family TraditionsIf they’re not as enthusiastic about every tradition, try to compromise. The goal is to create joy, not stress.
19. Pray for ThemCollege is hard. Pray for their rest, renewal, and wisdom in the semester ahead. Let them know you’re lifting them up in faith.
20. Soak It All InAmid the chaos, remember how special it is to have everyone home. These moments are fleeting, so embrace the mess, the noise, and the laughter.
Supporting your college kids during Christmas break isn’t about hovering or fixing everything—it’s about being there for them in a way that feels like home. With a little grace, some patience, and a lot of love, you can make this holiday season one they’ll treasure forever.
#ChristmasWithCollegeKids #MomTips #SupportAndEncourage #HomeForTheHolidays
RSS Feed
