The Catholic University for Independent Thinkers
When your student comes home during the Thanksgiving break it will be a time of transition as your student has enjoyed some newfound independence. This can be challenging to reconcile when you are living under the same roof. Here are some things to keep in mind as you all lovingly make this transition work:
Discuss, Don't Order
A student who has been living independently for the past few months will naturally
balk if ordered to do something. Have discussions instead, where there is some give
and take and you both listen to one another.
Consider Compromise
Where can you compromise so that you and your student can meet in the middle?
Prepare for Difference
As your student learns new things and experiences new people, chances are that some
of her views will change. Be prepared for her to express different opinions and to
discuss varied topics - it is all part of her learning curve.
Agree to Disagree
As you discuss new topics, you and your student may not always see eye to eye. This
does not mean anything about whether he respects you or not. It is more about him
testing his newfound knowledge and interests. So, agree to disagree on certain topics
and to listen to one another's different perspectives. You will learn a good deal
from one another!
Reintegrate Into Family Life
The student who has been away for a while may need time to reintegrate back into family
life. Her sleep patterns may not jive with everyone else's. She may take some nudging
to participate in household chores. Siblings will need to get used to one another
again. Just be prepared that this reintegration won't happen automatically.
The Thanksgiving transition will be okay as long as you prepare for changes and remain
open with your student. Talk about things, make your son or daughter feel welcome
and realize that this Thanksgiving test run will make the Christmas break even better!
