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Latwell Nyangu
Youth Interactive Writer
The academic journey can be stressful and overwhelming but having someone to talk to about challenges, can alleviate anxiety and foster resilience.
When it comes to supporting university children, parents play a crucial role in both financial and emotional aspects.
The transition from high school to university is always overwhelming for many students, and the support they receive from their parents can significantly influence their academic success and overall well-being.
Walking alone in an academic context often implies navigating challenges without guidance or assistance.
From my observation, several students are walking alone and only to see some parents pretending as if they were part of the journey.
Some parents just leave everything to the students and they think providing fees is good enough. Students benefit significantly from having a robust support system that includes lecturers and family members.
These individuals provide emotional support, academic guidance and practical advice that can help students overcome obstacles.
As a child, you think that your parents have been putting money away for your future college education.
Then you grow up.
And chances are that magical fund that you thought existed, does not.
Parents or guardians supporting a child’s education is often viewed as an investment in their future.
This week, I am writing something from my recent observation.
Like always, I write what I see.
Last week I attended a graduation ceremony where over 100 students graduated from the Christian College of Southern Africa (CCOSA).
One thing that I noticed was happiness throughout the day and it was the parents who were super excited.
But I asked myself, what role did they play in the success of these students?
The moments I spent during the graduation, it was all joy. Parents, guardians and support systems were on cloud nine as they celebrated their children’s success.
The support systems made me believe that students need comfort and they should not walk alone along the academic journey.
While I was still thinking, I asked myself, what contribution are these parents and the supporting systems making towards the success of their children?
Were they not just celebrating on the day and they have never proffered some support throughout? Parents should share strategies for dealing with common academic issues such as procrastination or test anxiety.
When students attempt to navigate their academic paths alone, they may encounter several risks that could hinder their success.
Without support, students may feel overwhelmed by academic pressures leading to burnout.
Also, studying alone may result in decreased motivation and accountability compared to working within a group setting where peers encourage one another.
The day of celebration should be meaningful to both the students and parents or support systems.
Students who do not engage with others may miss out on valuable feedback that could improve their work or understanding.
It is the obvious case that parents offer financial support which is often one of the most pressing concerns for university students.
Parents should first assess their child’s financial needs, which may include tuition fees, accommodation costs, textbooks, supplies, and living expenses.
Apart from the financial support, guidance is important. It is equally crucial for parents to allow their children to make decisions independently.
This fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are essential in adulthood.
Parents can assist by helping students develop effective study habits or time management skills.
They might suggest resources such as tutoring services or study groups available at the university.
Moreover, parents should engage their children in discussions about budgeting.
This not only helps students understand the value of money but also encourages them to take responsibility for their finances.
While it is important to provide support, parents should also set clear boundaries regarding financial assistance. This could mean agreeing on a monthly allowance or covering specific expenses.
Parents should encourage their children to share their experiences, challenges, and achievements without fear of judgment.
Regular check-ins via phone calls or video chats can help strengthen this connection especially those who stay away from home.
Of course, financial assistance is the core role of every parent despite some facing challenges.
But my concern is on this: How much support did they offer?
It is important to have family and parents support their college or school-going children.
Parents should celebrate with their children in the end.
And the success of every student comes from a willing parent.
Parental involvement is a critical factor in the educational success of students. Research consistently shows that when parents are engaged in their children’s education, it leads to improved academic performance, better behaviour, and enhanced social skills.
This engagement can take many forms, including helping with homework, attending school events, and maintaining open lines of communication with lecturers.
Families provide valuable insights into their children’s strengths and challenges, enabling educators to tailor instruction accordingly.
When students get the support of their families or parents, there are high expectations for student achievement as it reinforces the belief that all students can succeed academically.
Research indicates that parental expectations significantly influence students’ aspirations and performance levels; thus, fostering an environment where high standards are communicated consistently can lead to improved outcomes.
Above all family engagement leads to student success by improving academic performance, enhancing social-emotional development, increasing motivation, facilitating better communication, supporting diverse learning needs, building high expectations, and addressing barriers to involvement.
Engaging in conversations about career aspirations early on can help align financial support with future objectives.
Parents can leverage their own professional networks to help students find internships or job opportunities post-graduation, thus providing invaluable career guidance that extends beyond financial support.
Parents have a multifaceted role in supporting their university children through both financial assistance and guidance.
By fostering open communication, encouraging independence, establishing clear boundaries regarding finances, and preparing them for life after university, parents can significantly contribute to their children’s success during this pivotal stage of life.
Until we meet again for another celebration. . .
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