Supporting Your Teen Through the Big Move: A Guide for Parents

Sending your child to boarding school or university in the UK is an exciting and emotional time for the whole family. It’s a moment of great pride, but also a period of change and uncertainty. With the right preparation and mindset, the transition can be smoother for both parents and children. Here are eight simple yet powerful ways to support your teen during this important life step.

For Children Starting Boarding School and Teens Starting University

1. Talk openly about emotions

Boarding school brings a mix of excitement and nerves, especially for younger students. Let your child know that feelings of homesickness or uncertainty are completely normal. Encourage open conversations, but don’t push them to share before they’re ready. Creating a safe, supportive space for emotions can make all the difference.

2. Practice independence at home

Help your child prepare for life away from home by developing their independence in small, manageable ways. Let them take charge of organising their belongings, managing simple routines, or even doing laundry with supervision. These small steps can build big confidence before term begins.

3. Familiarise them with the new setting

If you can, visit the school in advance to make the environment more familiar. If not, explore the school’s website together, look through pictures and videos, and talk about daily life there. When students know what to expect, the uncertainty feels less intimidating.

4. Keep goodbyes low-pressure

It’s natural to feel emotional on departure day, but keeping your goodbye calm and confident will help your child feel secure. Let them know you trust them and believe in their ability to thrive. A quiet, positive send-off often works better than a long, emotional farewell.

5. Give them a return date to hold on to

Even without booking a ticket, having a plan for when they’ll come home next gives students something to look forward to. It helps to know that home is still there, unchanged and waiting, giving them the reassurance to fully engage in their new life.

6. Maintain familiar routines

When everything else feels new, having a few familiar routines can offer structure and comfort. Encourage your teen to maintain habits they already enjoy, whether that’s a workout schedule, a certain hobby or a morning routine. These small consistencies help keep them anchored.

7. Acknowledge the change

Especially if your family is also going through changes like relocating or downsizing, it’s

important to help your teen mark the transition. Suggest they create a checklist of favourite experiences or activities to enjoy before they leave. Saying goodbye well helps them start fresh with confidence.

8. Stay connected, but not too connected

University students crave independence but still benefit from gentle parental scaffolding. Talk about how often to check in, and balance serious chats with lighter ones about pets, family or everyday life. Keep the connection going without crowding their space.