For parents
Don't try and
fix everything.
Instead, ask questions and be receptive to the answers. Be genuine in what you say, don't interrogate or scold. Create a space where conversation goes beyond three words, ask follow ups, don't just pretend to be interested.
If you're struggling to open up the dialogue, we've created a guide with prompts, advice and more based on each of our episodes. Try them out, see if they fit into your life, and we wish you the best in building up your connection with your kid.
Listen to what they say before jumping in.
Advice isn't always the best move. Let them finish their thought and then ask what they need from you.
Get specific, don't generalize.
“How's school going?” prompts a short answer, but asking “What was your favorite part of this week?” prompts a story.
Don't force it, let it happen naturally.
Check in with them, ask a question, maybe even send them an episode. Start the conversation and let them engage with it when they're ready.
Prompts to get started.
Listen to an episode, send it to your kid, then discuss. Pick one of the prompt questions and let the conversation flow.
- 1
"What's one difference you've noticed while living at school? Is it what you expected?"
- 2
"Would you live with your roommate again? If not, what are you looking for in the next one?"
- 3
"What's something you wish your dorm/apartment had?"
- 1
"Are there any classes you're struggling with? What do you think would help you get through it?"
- 2
"Who's been your favorite professor? What's your favorite thing about them?"
- 3
"Would you drop a class if you could? There's no shame in doing so."
- 1
"How would you compare your workload now to previous years? Do you feel like you're doing too much, too little, or just enough?"
- 2
"Are there any organizations you've joined that you wish you hadn't? Is there anything stopping you from quitting?"
- 3
"Are there any activities you've been wanting to try but haven't yet?"
- 1
"When do you feel behind? Ahead? Do you feel like you can get a grasp on the ups and downs?"
- 2
"What's something that would help your week feel less overwhelming? Do you think you could implement that into your routine?"
- 3
"How can I support you without crossing any boundaries?"
- 1
"What costs have surprised you the most? Is there anything more or less expensive than you thought it was?"
- 2
"What's something that is taking up more of your money than you expected?"
- 3
"Is there any advice you wish I had given you about money before going to college?"
Got your own question? Send it to us!
We could use it on an episode.