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Study finds students want to hear your call |
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October 10, 2009
A new British study finds nearly a quarter of first year university students would like to receive a call from their parents as much as once a day. This may be great news for parents who are keen on staying in touch with their children as they undergo new changes. However, child psychologist and parenting expert Pat Spungin reminds parents there is fine balance between being there for them and being overprotective. 22.4% of students in this study preferred email or text messages, particular in males, which could be an alternative option.
While many parenting experts are quick to warn against the possible dangers of being overprotective, as it often causes extra stress or can prevent students from developing important autonomy and experience, this study suggests close contact may still be important for many students. When developing your child’s autonomy, make sure you make yourself available for them if they are experiencing hardships and homesickness.
He suggested a couple of ideas to help parents keep in touch without making their student dependent on constant contact with their parents.
For more information about the blurry line between being supportive and overprotective, see http://www.info4parents.ca/resources/articles/parentArticles/whattype.htm.
Visit http://www.canada.com/life/parenting/Your+kids+actually+want+call/2058992/story.html for more information on Spungin’s study.
A new British study finds nearly a quarter of first year university students would like to receive a call from their parents as much as once a day. This may be great news for parents who are keen on staying in touch with their children as they undergo new changes. However, child psychologist and parenting expert Pat Spungin reminds parents there is fine balance between being there for them and being overprotective. 22.4% of students in this study preferred email or text messages, particular in males, which could be an alternative option.
While many parenting experts are quick to warn against the possible dangers of being overprotective, as it often causes extra stress or can prevent students from developing important autonomy and experience, this study suggests close contact may still be important for many students. When developing your child’s autonomy, make sure you make yourself available for them if they are experiencing hardships and homesickness.
He suggested a couple of ideas to help parents keep in touch without making their student dependent on constant contact with their parents.
- Arrange a pre-agreed time once or twice a week for telephone calls
- Use emails and text messages if it is more convenient
- If your students are comfortable, use social networking tools like Facebook and micro-blogging sites like Twitter.
- Send food parcels to remind them of home
- Avoid morning calls, because students may still be holding on to habits around sleeping in
- Avoid the temptation to visit without prior notice
For more information about the blurry line between being supportive and overprotective, see http://www.info4parents.ca/resources/articles/parentArticles/whattype.htm.
Visit http://www.canada.com/life/parenting/Your+kids+actually+want+call/2058992/story.html for more information on Spungin’s study.