Tips for reconnecting with your student over fall break
Fall break is an opportunity to reconnect with your student, hear about their semester and enjoy time together. Whether this is their first visit home or they've made the trip many times, returning home after living independently can take some adjustment for both students and families.
A little preparation and open communication can help everyone make the most of the break. Here are some tips to consider before your student arrives.
Talk about plans and expectations
Before your student comes home, take time to discuss what the visit might look like. Let them know about any changes at home, such as a sibling moving into their room, a new pet or changes to household routines.
It's also helpful to talk about expectations for household responsibilities, family activities and time together. Your student may have plans to see friends, catch up on sleep or work on assignments during the break. Ask what they're hoping to do and share any family plans you'd like them to be part of.
Having these conversations ahead of time can help everyone feel more comfortable and avoid misunderstandings.
Help them prepare for travel
If your student is traveling home for fall break, encourage them to plan ahead. Students flying out of Denver International Airport can take the RTD SkyRide bus from Boulder to the airport. Remind them to check schedules and allow extra time for travel during the busy holiday season.
If your student lives off campus, remind them to leave their heat on while they're away to help prevent pipes from freezing. Keeping the thermostat around 60°F can help protect their home during colder weather. They should also check their lease or ask their property manager about any specific heating requirements.
Make room for rest and connection
By fall break, your student may be balancing exams, projects, jobs and other commitments. Time at home can offer a welcome opportunity to relax and recharge before the final weeks of the semester.
Ask your student what they're hoping to get out of the break and find ways to balance family time with their need for rest. Simple activities, like sharing a favorite meal, taking a walk or watching a movie together, can be meaningful ways to reconnect.
Being flexible with plans and giving your student space to recharge can help make the visit enjoyable for everyone.
Show interest in their college experience
Your student is continuing to develop new routines, interests and perspectives as they navigate college life. Fall break is a great opportunity to learn more about their experiences and the person they're becoming.
Ask open-ended questions to encourage conversation, such as:
- What's been your favorite part of the semester so far?
- Have you discovered any new interests or activities?
- What's something you're looking forward to when you return to Boulder?
- What's been challenging lately?
Give your student time to share their experiences and listen with curiosity. They may have exciting updates, challenges they're working through or a mix of both. Sharing what's happening in your own life can also help make the conversation feel more natural.
Help them prepare to return to campus
Fall break can also be a convenient time for your student to take care of a few practical needs before returning to Boulder.
Check whether they need help arranging any medical or dental appointments, gathering supplies or taking care of other tasks before the semester ends.
With Colorado's unpredictable winter weather, it's also a good time to make sure your student has what they need to stay warm. Encourage them to bring winter essentials back to campus, including a warm coat, gloves, a hat, waterproof boots and plenty of layers.
Approach difficult conversations with care
While fall break can be a time to reconnect, your student may also want to discuss challenges they're experiencing. Whether they're navigating academic stress, relationships or other concerns, approaching these conversations with patience and understanding can help them feel supported.
Here are a few ways to encourage productive conversations:
- Listen without interrupting. Give your student time to explain what they're experiencing and how they're feeling.
- Ask questions rather than making assumptions. Try to understand their perspective, even when it differs from your own.
- Acknowledge their feelings. Showing empathy can help your student feel heard and understood.
- Ask what kind of support would be helpful. Your student may want advice, help exploring resources or simply someone to listen.
If you have concerns about your student's well-being, CU Boulder's Student Outreach, Advocacy & Support (SOAS) team can help you recognize signs of distress and identify campus support resources. You can contact SOAS at 303-492-7348 or submit an online referral if you're concerned about your student.