You're On Your Own (But I'm Here if You Need Me): Mentoring Your Child
During the College Years

Savage wrote this book to help parents mentor their children during college, and I definitely suggest that parents of high school seniors read it! I believe that having a good sense of what might be coming your way will help you sleep better and not overreact when things do happen.

In many communities the support that exists for families of young children just does not exist for parents of teens and young adults. Whether your child is going to a local community college or an Ivy League campus across the country, the transition from high school to college is huge for your child, your family, and you as a parent.

I loved the practical advice and great stories provided by Ms. Savage about how parenting a college student is different, requires a different approach to finances, health, wellness, academics, work, emergencies, and most importantly mentoring. There are down-to-earth examples of how families handled different challenges, and not everyone is perfect.

Ms. Savage not only spoke to me as a parent of a high school junior but she has some great advice for teens and college students at the end of every chapter. There is also a great chapter about learning outside the classroom and how to choose a career, not a job.

This book made me feel much more secure about the types of challenges our family will face soon. It did not shy away from some difficult subjects including sex, alcohol, drugs, sexual assault, emotional health, how to prepare for visits with your college student, and even body art. A must read for parents and it would not hurt students either.

Once your teen actually leaves for college, the authors of this wonderful book suggest that your relationship with him or her will likely improve, overnight!