Summer has flown by yet again, and another school year is just around the corner. If you’re a parent of a college-bound teen, however, back-to-school prep can feel radically different. From last-minute dorm needs to life changes, you and your teen likely have a lot on your mind. To get you both ready, we’re going to focus on one of the most important aspects of this new life experience: communication.

Communication is the key to a strong relationship and can bring positivity, expose any warning signs that your teens aren’t adjusting and allow you to offer guidance in times of need. With college comes significant challenges. Things like social priorities, school requirements and living situations can cause your teens to shift focus and affect how and when they communicate with you.

As you and your teens prepare for this new experience, consider the tips below to ensure that communication takes on positive change:

1.    Become more of a coach.

Parent from a distance – both literally and figuratively. Give your teens the space they need. This is one of the hardest things that a parent will ever have to do. If your teens do seek your guidance, ask them questions versus telling them how to problem solve. College is a time for your teens to gain confidence so they can make good decisions for themselves.

2.    Create expectations.

Let communication be the constant and reliable element in their world of change. Before they head off for school, create expectations. Talk with them about your needs for communication on finances, school or just to catch up, but be mindful of their schedule and respect their time.

3.     Make plans.

To adhere to expectations and strengthen your relationship, make plans to communicate and follow through. Whether it’s on the phone on a Saturday morning, via video messaging during the week or once a month, there’s no right or wrong way to stay connected.

4.    Be approachable.

When your teens reach out to you in good times and in bad, be a good listener. Let them speak before you respond. Make them feel comfortable with sharing their college experiences with you. Support them, and when necessary, coach them toward new, positive directions.

For more tips on how to maintain communication with your college teens, visit theCoaching page.