Supporting Your Child's Next Adventure

Supporting your Child's Next Adventure: Navigating the Emotional Transition

As parents, one of life’s most bittersweet moments is watching your child spread their wings and embark on their own adventures. The good news is, when your child moves to Deakin Res, they'll have all the support they need to flourish, and you'll have peace of mind about their safety. However, we understand this phase of parenthood can be tough, so we've gathered some thoughts (supported by expert opinion) to try and help you navigate it with grace and understanding.

First and foremost, it’s crucial to show unwavering support for your child’s decision (and trust us, choosing DRS is a great decision!). Dr. Lisa Damour, a clinical psychologist specializing in adolescents, emphasizes,

"Being supportive means making it clear to your child that you are on their team, regardless of where they are living."

So, try and communicate openly about their goals and express your pride in their independence, even if you're feeling uncertain. At the same time, be kind to yourself. It’s natural to feel a mix of emotions—from pride to sadness. Dr. Abigail Gewirtz, a child psychologist, encourages, "Allow yourself to grieve the changes that come with your child moving away."

Secondly, understand that your role as a parent may evolve with distance. While you won't be physically present every day, your emotional support remains invaluable. Dr. Kenneth Ginsburg, a paediatrician specializing in adolescent medicine, notes,

"Parents can continue to provide guidance and comfort by being available for meaningful conversations and offering advice when asked."

Embrace technology to stay connected through video calls, texts, and social media. Knowing you're there if they need you will give your child a sense of security despite the distance – and in our experience, many young people don’t know they really need their parents, until they do. So to have those communication channels open is pivotal.

Recognise that your child’s need for autonomy is natural. Respect their space while remaining accessible for guidance. This balance fosters mutual respect and strengthens your relationship in the long run. It’s okay if they take time to respond—it’s part of their journey into independence. If you’re finding the adjustment challenging that’s completely understandable. If you can, just communicate openly with your child about your feelings and acknowledge that you’re both learning as you go.

Moving away from home is a significant decision for your young person, requiring empathy and resilience from both of you. Dr. Damour beautifully captures this sentiment: "Parenting is a commitment to supporting our children’s growth. Sometimes, that means stepping back to let them thrive on their own."

At Deakin Residential Services, we're here to support you and your child through this transition. We’re available 24/7 to answer your questions, address concerns, or just chat. Your child will have dedicated support teams ensuring their academic success and wellbeing, so they’re in good hands.

While the thought of your child moving away may feel daunting, it also marks a new chapter filled with opportunities for personal growth and we’re so excited to be partnering with you and your young person on this momentous journey and look forward to welcoming you to Deakin Res, soon.