Soon your teens will encounter a newfound freedom, and for parents, that can be nerve-racking! Your teen may feel ready for this freedom, but it’s important they understand with it comes increased responsibility. Even though they’ll no longer be living under your roof, they’ll still be faced with consequences for their actions – both as a member of your family and as part of society.

To help prepare your teens for what’s in store and reinforce expectations, here are three topics I’d recommend discussing with them well before they head off to college:

1.    Managing Your Time & Commitments

Starting college life away from home means assuming ultimate responsibility for managing class schedules, homework, extracurricular activities, part-time jobs and more. Parents continue to be one of the strongest influences during this phase of life, and it’s important to reinforce your trust, set clear boundaries and affirm the good choices your teens have made to this point.

2.    Saying “No” to Underage Drinking

College life often includes being faced with scenarios involving alcohol. Discuss with your teens how they’d handle a variety of situations. Ask open-ended questions that help them think through their actions, the consequences and how those choices could affect their future.

3.    Growing Your Financial Responsibility

Financial responsibility is one of the most important disciplines your children will learn in their lifetimes. Some families start teaching financial responsibility early with allowances or budgets, which is a great idea. As your teens approach college, you should look for even more opportunities to let them take the reigns with their finances. Work with your teens to establish a weekly budget and give them responsibility for managing their expenses. Encourage them to save throughout the year for any big-ticket expenditures.

For more on the college conversation, head to our Moving Out page.