Top Ways Parents Can Help Students Cope with Stress
Hey, everyone. Welcome back for another deep dive.
Speaker 2:Yeah. It's, it's good to be back.
Speaker 1:So today, we're gonna be talking about something I think a lot of our listeners are probably dealing with right now.
Speaker 2:Definitely. Yeah.
Speaker 1:College prep and, particularly, how to help our kids deal with the stress of it all.
Speaker 2:Oh, absolutely. So much stress involved.
Speaker 1:I mean, it's a tough time for everybody involved. Right?
Speaker 2:Sure. For sure. Yeah.
Speaker 1:The teenagers are, you know, going through so many changes, trying to figure out who they are, what they wanna do with their lives.
Speaker 2:Yeah. And then you layer on top of that.
Speaker 1:And then we just kinda dump this whole college application process on them.
Speaker 2:Oh, yeah. Just like a ton of bricks. Yeah.
Speaker 1:And it's not just about them either.
Speaker 2:Yeah. Not at all.
Speaker 1:It's about us as parents too. Definitely. We're trying to be supportive. We're trying to juggle everything else in our lives, work and, you know, family and all that.
Speaker 2:Yeah. Finding that balance, that's tough.
Speaker 1:It is. And, you know, this this blog post that we're gonna be talking about today, top ways parents can help students cope with stress Yeah. It really kinda hits the nail on the head.
Speaker 2:It does. It really captures that feeling of, like, being in a pressure cooker.
Speaker 1:It really does.
Speaker 2:You know, like, everybody in the family is kind of feeling the heat.
Speaker 1:Yes. And I think, you know, one of the biggest things that that contributes to that pressure cooker feeling is the fear of rejection.
Speaker 2:Oh, yeah. Absolutely.
Speaker 1:You know, I was reading recently that some of these top colleges are accepting less than 10% of applicants.
Speaker 2:It's unbelievable.
Speaker 1:I mean, 10%.
Speaker 2:It's crazy. Like, how do
Speaker 1:you even wrap your head around that as a parent?
Speaker 2:It makes you rethink the whole process, doesn't it?
Speaker 1:It really does. And and you know what I appreciate about this blog post is that it acknowledges that getting into college is important.
Speaker 2:Of course. Yeah.
Speaker 1:But it's not the only measure of success.
Speaker 2:Right. It's not the be all and end all.
Speaker 1:It's about so much more than just that acceptance letter.
Speaker 2:Exactly. It's about setting your child up to thrive.
Speaker 1:I'd love that to thrive.
Speaker 2:Not just survive, but to actually thrive in college and beyond.
Speaker 1:Okay. So how do we do that?
Speaker 2:Well, the blog post really stresses the importance of creating a supportive home environment.
Speaker 1:Okay. Supportive how?
Speaker 2:So it's about open communication. You know, really listening to your child empathizing with what they're going through.
Speaker 1:So it's not just about saying, how was your day?
Speaker 2:Exactly. It's about going deeper.
Speaker 1:It's about digging a little deeper.
Speaker 2:Yeah. Like, what was the most challenging part of your day? Or what are you most proud of accomplishing today?
Speaker 1:Oh, I like that. Yeah.
Speaker 2:I know. Those kinds of questions that really get them talking.
Speaker 1:Because sometimes I think we we get so busy that we forget to really listen.
Speaker 2:Oh, for sure. It's easy to get caught up in our own stuff.
Speaker 1:And and we just kinda go through the motions.
Speaker 2:And the kids pick up on that.
Speaker 1:They do.
Speaker 2:You know, they know when you're not really present.
Speaker 1:So being present is key.
Speaker 2:It's huge. Oh, yeah. And and also validating their feelings.
Speaker 1:Validating your feelings.
Speaker 2:Okay. Even if you know their worries seem small to you
Speaker 1:Right.
Speaker 2:Uh-huh. It's important to acknowledge that their feelings are real.
Speaker 1:That they're valid. Yeah.
Speaker 2:And that can make a world of difference.
Speaker 1:So instead of saying, don't worry. You'll get into a good college.
Speaker 2:Right. Which can feel dismissive.
Speaker 1:Yeah. It's more like, I understand why you're feeling stressed about this. It's a big decision.
Speaker 2:It's normal to feel overwhelmed.
Speaker 1:Exactly.
Speaker 2:And then you can start problem solving together.
Speaker 1:Okay. So that's where the practical tips come in.
Speaker 2:That's right. The blog has some great advice for that, especially around time management.
Speaker 1:Okay. Time management, every student's worst nightmare. Right?
Speaker 2:And let's be honest. Every parents too. Absolutely. Who hasn't struggled with that?
Speaker 1:So what does the blog say about time management?
Speaker 2:Well, it's all about breaking those tasks down.
Speaker 1:Breaking them down. Okay.
Speaker 2:Instead of letting that to do list just spiral out of control.
Speaker 1:Because those to do lists can get really long.
Speaker 2:Oh, yeah. Pages long.
Speaker 1:And then you just feel overwhelmed, and you don't even know where to start.
Speaker 2:Exactly. So the blog suggests breaking things down into smaller, more manageable chunks.
Speaker 1:Okay. Like bite sized pieces.
Speaker 2:Yeah. Exactly. Like, how do you eat an elephant?
Speaker 1:One bite at a time. Right?
Speaker 2:There you go.
Speaker 1:I love that.
Speaker 2:And using a calendar can be a game changer.
Speaker 1:A calendar? Okay.
Speaker 2:Whether it's digital or, like, you know, the good old fashioned paper kind of.
Speaker 1:Whatever works. Right?
Speaker 2:Whatever works for you. The point is to visualize those deadlines.
Speaker 1:Okay. See it all laid out.
Speaker 2:And prioritize what needs to get done first.
Speaker 1:So it's about taking that giant overwhelming monster of college prep.
Speaker 2:Oh, yeah. It can feel like a monster.
Speaker 1:And turning it into a series of smaller, more manageable tasks.
Speaker 2:Exactly. Break it down. Conquer
Speaker 1:it. And I think that's a good lesson for life in general.
Speaker 2:Absolutely. Not just for college prep.
Speaker 1:We We could all use a little bit of that. For sure.
Speaker 2:For sure.
Speaker 1:Now the blog also talks about stress reduction techniques.
Speaker 2:Oh, yeah. That's important.
Speaker 1:Things like mindfulness, deep breathing exercises, even just taking a break to listen to music or go for a walk.
Speaker 2:You know, it sounds so simple.
Speaker 1:It does. Right?
Speaker 2:Almost too simple.
Speaker 1:But I think sometimes we forget about those simple things.
Speaker 2:We do. We get so focused on the big picture
Speaker 1:The big complicated picture.
Speaker 2:That we forget about the little things that can actually make a big difference.
Speaker 1:And it's not just about telling our kids to do these things right.
Speaker 2:No. It's about modeling them ourselves.
Speaker 1:Ah, leading by example.
Speaker 2:Exactly. If they see us taking care of our own mental health
Speaker 1:Taking breaks, recharging.
Speaker 2:It sends a powerful message.
Speaker 1:It's like actions speak louder than words.
Speaker 2:We really do.
Speaker 1:We can't expect our kids to prioritize self care if we're running around like, you know
Speaker 2:Like chickens with their heads cut off.
Speaker 1:Exactly. Stressed out of our minds.
Speaker 2:So we have to show them that it's okay to take a break.
Speaker 1:To ask for help when we need it.
Speaker 2:Exactly.
Speaker 1:And speaking of help, the blog also talks about the importance of finding the right support system.
Speaker 2:Oh, yeah. A good support system is crucial.
Speaker 1:So it's not just about what happens at home.
Speaker 2:No. It's about connecting with teachers, counselors, maybe even other parents who are going through the same thing.
Speaker 1:Right. Because you're not alone in this.
Speaker 2:Definitely not. There's a whole community out there.
Speaker 1:And the blog also reminds us that setbacks are a normal part of the process.
Speaker 2:Oh, yeah. There will be bumps in the road.
Speaker 1:There will be times when things don't go as planned.
Speaker 2:A test score isn't what you hoped for, or a college application gets rejected.
Speaker 1:And those moments can be tough.
Speaker 2:It can be heartbreaking.
Speaker 1:For both the student and the parent.
Speaker 2:Yeah. You feel it too.
Speaker 1:But the blog emphasizes that these setbacks are not failures.
Speaker 2:They're not.
Speaker 1:They're opportunities for growth.
Speaker 2:It's about teaching resilience. You know?
Speaker 1:Resilience. I love that.
Speaker 2:That ability to bounce back from challenges.
Speaker 1:So instead of freaking out when things don't go perfectly.
Speaker 2:Right. Because that's our natural instinct.
Speaker 1:It is. It's like, oh my gosh. The world is ending.
Speaker 2:But instead of doing that, we can use those moments as teachable moments.
Speaker 1:Okay. Turn those negatives into positives.
Speaker 2:Exactly. Like, okay. This didn't go as we hoped. What can we learn from this?
Speaker 1:How could we adjust our approach moving forward?
Speaker 2:And that's a skill that will serve them well beyond college.
Speaker 1:It's a life skill.
Speaker 2:Exactly. It's about equipping them with the tools they need to navigate the ups and downs of life.
Speaker 1:So it's not just about getting into college. It's about setting them up for success in all areas of life.
Speaker 2:That's the goal.
Speaker 1:I love that. And, you know, one important aspect of that is helping them develop a growth mindset.
Speaker 2:A growth mindset. Yeah. That's a big one.
Speaker 1:Now I've heard that term before, but I'm not entirely sure what it means.
Speaker 2:Okay. So a growth mindset is basically the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed.
Speaker 1:Okay. So it's not fixed.
Speaker 2:Exactly. It's the opposite of a fixed mindset, which is, you know, you're either born with certain talents or you're not.
Speaker 1:Right. I I'm just not a math person.
Speaker 2:Yeah. That kind of thinking.
Speaker 1:So instead of saying that, it's more about encouraging them to say
Speaker 2:I may be struggling with this concept now, but I know I can improve.
Speaker 1:If I keep practicing and seeking help when I need it.
Speaker 2:Exactly. And the blog offers some tips for fostering this growth mindset.
Speaker 1:Okay. Like what?
Speaker 2:Well, one suggestion is to praise effort and process over just results.
Speaker 1:So not just celebrating the a on the test.
Speaker 2:Right. It's about acknowledging the hard work and dedication that went into achieving that grade.
Speaker 1:So it's about the journey.
Speaker 2:Exactly. Not just the destination.
Speaker 1:And it's also about helping them see challenges as opportunities.
Speaker 2:Opportunities for growth rather than obstacles to avoid.
Speaker 1:Okay. So embrace the challenge.
Speaker 2:Encourage them to step outside their comfort zone, try new things.
Speaker 1:Don't be afraid to make mistakes.
Speaker 2:Exactly. Mistakes are a part of the learning process.
Speaker 1:They're valuable lessons.
Speaker 2:And finally, the blog reminds us that it's crucial to model this growth mindset ourselves.
Speaker 1:There's that leading by example again.
Speaker 2:If our kids see us embracing challenges, learning from our mistakes, striving to improve
Speaker 1:They're more likely to do the same.
Speaker 2:Exactly. It all starts with us.
Speaker 1:And remember, this is a journey, not a destination.
Speaker 2:It's a marathon, not a sprint.
Speaker 1:There will be ups and downs.
Speaker 2:Moments of frustration times when you feel like you're not doing enough.
Speaker 1:But it's important to remember that you're not alone in this.
Speaker 2:There are resources available to help you and your child navigate this process.
Speaker 1:With less stress and more success. And speaking of resources
Speaker 2:Well, there's this really cool platform I recently came across called College Journey.
Speaker 1:They're all about helping families navigate this whole college prep process and hopefully take some of the stress out of it.
Speaker 2:Yeah. You know what's really interesting about College Journey is that they use AI to help personalize the experience for each student.
Speaker 1:So it's not just like a one size fits all kind of thing?
Speaker 2:No. Not at all. They actually have this AI guide named Alice.
Speaker 1:Alice.
Speaker 2:Yeah. You can think of her as, like, a personal college counselor
Speaker 1:Oh, wow.
Speaker 2:Available 247.
Speaker 1:That's amazing.
Speaker 2:Yeah. So she can help students with all sorts of things, like figuring out what colleges might be a good fit for them.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:You know, recommending extracurriculars or summer programs, even helping with those dreaded essays.
Speaker 1:Oh, the essays. Those are the worst.
Speaker 2:I know. Right?
Speaker 1:But to have somebody there who can kinda guide you through that process?
Speaker 2:It's huge. And for parents, College Journey also offers a ton of resources
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:To help you understand the process, keep track of deadlines, and support your child in a way that's both effective and empowering.
Speaker 1:So it's like a one stop shop for everything college prep.
Speaker 2:Pretty much. And the best part is it's way more affordable than traditional college counseling.
Speaker 1:Oh, that's great because I know that can be a huge expense for families.
Speaker 2:Yeah. So this makes expert guidance accessible to more people.
Speaker 1:I love okay. So if you are feeling overwhelmed by the whole college prep thing
Speaker 2:Definitely check out College Journey.
Speaker 1:Dentistry Journey.
Speaker 2:They've got a ton of great information, including that blog post we've been talking about, top ways parents can help students cope with stress.
Speaker 1:Awesome. And you can find all of that at collegejourney.ai.
Speaker 2:Exactly. Just head over to their website.
Speaker 1:So as we wrap up our deep dive today
Speaker 2:Yeah.
Speaker 1:We wanna leave you with one final thought provoking question.
Speaker 2:Okay. Hit us with it.
Speaker 1:If you could give your child just one piece of advice for navigating stress during this whole college prep journey.
Speaker 2:Oh, that's a good one.
Speaker 1:What would it be?
Speaker 2:That's a tough one. But, you know, I think the most important thing is to remind them that this is just one chapter in their lives.
Speaker 1:It's not the whole book.
Speaker 2:Exactly. And that no matter what happens, they are loved and supported.
Speaker 1:I love that.
Speaker 2:And that they have the strength and resilience to overcome any challenges that come their way.
Speaker 1:Beautifully said.
Speaker 2:Thank you.
Speaker 1:Thanks for joining us on the deep dive.
Speaker 2:Always a pleasure.
Speaker 1:We'll catch you next time for another fascinating exploration. And speaking of resources
Speaker 2:Well, there's this really cool platform I came across recently called College Journey.
Speaker 1:College Journey.
Speaker 2:Yeah. And they're all about, you know, helping families navigate this whole college prep process.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:Hopefully, taking some of the stress out of it.
Speaker 1:I like that.
Speaker 2:And, you know, what's really interesting about College Journey is that they actually use AI Oh, wow. To help personalize the experience for each student.
Speaker 1:So it's not like a one size fits all kind of thing?
Speaker 2:No. Not at all. Okay. They actually have this AI guide named Alice.
Speaker 1:Alice. Okay.
Speaker 2:Yeah. And you can think of her as, like, a personal college counselor.
Speaker 1:Wow. So, like, in your pocket?
Speaker 2:Yeah. Exactly. Available 247.
Speaker 1:That's pretty awesome.
Speaker 2:Yeah. So, you know, she can help students with all sorts of things, like figuring out what colleges might be a good fit for them.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:Recommending extracurriculars or summer programs, even helping with those dreaded essays.
Speaker 1:Oh, the essays. Yeah. I think I can hear you. Be a nightmare.
Speaker 2:But to have somebody there, you know, kind of guide you through that process
Speaker 1:Yeah. Absolutely.
Speaker 2:It's huge. And for parents, College Journey also offers a ton of resources
Speaker 1:Oh, okay.
Speaker 2:To help you understand the process, keep track of deadlines
Speaker 1:Mhmm.
Speaker 2:And support your child in a way that's both effective and empowering.
Speaker 1:So it's kinda like a one stop shop for everything college prep?
Speaker 2:Pretty much. Yeah.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:And the best part
Speaker 1:What's that?
Speaker 2:It's way more affordable than traditional college counseling.
Speaker 1:Oh, wow. Okay. Because I know that that can be a huge expense for families.
Speaker 2:Yeah. For sure. So this makes expert guidance accessible to more people.
Speaker 1:I love that. Mhmm. Okay. So if you are feeling overwhelmed by this whole college prep thing
Speaker 2:Definitely check out College Journey.
Speaker 1:Nick His Journey.
Speaker 2:They've got a ton of great information, including that blog post we've been talking about. About. Okay. Top ways parents can help students cope with stress.
Speaker 1:Yes. And you can find all of that at collegejourney.ai.
Speaker 2:Exactly. Just head over to their website.
Speaker 1:Awesome. So as we wrap up our deep dive today, we wanna leave you with one final thought provoking question.
Speaker 2:Okay. Hit me.
Speaker 1:If you could give your child just one piece of advice
Speaker 2:Okay.
Speaker 1:For navigating stress during this whole college prep journey
Speaker 2:Oh, that's a good one.
Speaker 1:What would it be?
Speaker 2:That's a tough one. But, you know, I think the most important thing is to remind them that this is just one chapter in their lives.
Speaker 1:It's not the whole book.
Speaker 2:Exactly. And that no matter what happens
Speaker 1:Yeah.
Speaker 2:They are loved and supported and that they have the strength and the resilience to overcome any challenges that come their way.
Speaker 1:I love that. Beautifully said. Well, thank you so much for joining us on the Deep Dive.
Speaker 2:It's always a pleasure.
Speaker 1:And we'll catch you next time for another fascinating exploration.
