In this episode of "The Summer Before...", Karen and Emily discuss the summer before college and answer your questions about preparing for this big transition. They talk about fostering independence, celebrating your Senior, and teaching essential life skills. Emily shares some hilarious advice on dorm room safety, and Karen reminds moms to lower our expectations when it comes to phone calls. As always, tune in for practical tips and heartfelt encouragement as your child embarks on this exciting new chapter.

Episode Recap:
5:16 - Karen’s goal was to have her kids ready for independence by the time they left high school 
7:19 - How can I celebrate my Senior well? 
10:10 - Karen shares how she ended up at Auburn University
11:29 - What are some life skills I can teach my 18 year old this summer? 
14:52 - Emily gives advice for how not to set your college dorm room on fire ;)

15:45 - How do I set my teen up to be supported in their faith while they are away from home

17:23 - Your prayer life is essential to your child’s faith

18:18 - What should my expectations be for how often I talk to my kids while they’re at school? 

22:58 - Be excited for your child as they enter this new phase of life! 

Questions for Discussion:

1. How are you feeling about your child leaving for college? What emotions have surfaced as you prepare for this significant transition, and how are you processing them?
2. How do you think the dynamics in your household will change with your child away at college? Have you thought ahead to how you will navigate that shift? 
3. What challenges do you foresee in balancing guidance and allowing your child to make their own decisions? How do you plan to handle situations where you might need to step back and let them navigate on their own?
4. What are you most excited about for your child as they embark on this new journey? 

Resources:

• Pre-order Karen’s all-new Survival Guide to Motherhood today! Orders ship July 31st: https://amzn.to/3Vr7LlD
• Want to bring Karen to speak in your community? Reach out: https://www.birdsonwiremoms.com/invite 
• Connect with Birds on a Wire Moms on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/birdsonawiremoms  and Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/birdsonawiremoms