What to Do When Your Parents Come

Living on your own for the first time is as exciting for you as it is nerve-racking for your parents.

Every parent worries about their child, no matter that child’s age. Your parents are wondering if you are eating enough, excelling in school, associating with good people, and if you are safe and happy. A visit from your parents is an opportunity to reassure them that you are doing well, and to show them that you are a responsible, capable and mature adult.

Clean up before your parents arrive. Not only is a clean living space aesthetically pleasing, but it says a lot about how well someone is doing in their life. Your parents will feel more comfortable if it looks like you have your “stuff” together. Reserve a place for them to stay comfortably if they are coming for an overnight visit. You should offer to sleep on the couch if no additional bed is available. Change and wash the sheets, purchase extra pillows if you don’t already have them, and clean off your night stand.

Go grocery shopping. Since one of your parents’ concerns is adequate nutrition, you should stock your fridge with the essentials. You know what their favorite foods are, so make sure you have those on-hand as well.

Don’t make other plans while they are visiting. Clear your schedule so you can show them around not just your apartment, but your town, your school, and your favorite places. You should treat their visit like you would that of an old friend. Make them your number one priority.

Let your parents meet your friends. Every parent questions who their child is friends with. They know how influential friends can be. Introducing your parents to your friends may put their minds at ease knowing you have good people in your life who support you when they are not able to be there.

Enjoy this time together. There are so many things in life you are going miss as you grow up, and time with your parents is one of them. Never forget, you are and always will be their baby.

About the Author: Rachel Savering is a marketing student at Strayer University and will be graduating this spring with her Bachelor’s Degree. In addition to being a student, she is also in sales as an assistant manager and enjoys helping others. Rachel is passionate about writing as well as an outdoor enthusiast who enjoys hiking and running.