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Winter Break: Tips for the transition home

Students walking on a snowy campus

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Break can be a great time to catch up and reconnect with your student. It can also be an adjustment (for everyone).Ìý

Here are some tips and things to keep in mind when your student comes to visit.Ìý

1. Get to know them again

While it may not feel like your student has been away for that long, things can change as they navigate college, explore their identities and form new relationships. That’s why it’s important to take some time to get to know your student again, even if it feels like things haven’t changed.Ìý

Ask open-ended questions about their classes, major, what they’ve been up to, what their friends are like and how they’re doing overall. Keep in mind that some students may be struggling more than others. Catching up and finding out more about their experiences can help you determine whether or not your student could benefit from additional support at home or on campus.Ìý

2. Talk about expectations at home

Your student has likely gotten used to living independently and operating on their own schedule. Because of this, your student may not know what is expected of them when they return home over break. Share your expectations with them in advance, so they aren’t caught off guard. Consider things like curfews, chores, commitments and other factors.Ìý

It’s also a good idea to talk with your students about their own plans. They may have different ideas of how they’d like to spend their break, and this can be a good time to share awareness and come to a compromise if necessary. For instance, you may need to talk about how much time you think your student may spend with you, their friends or on their own. Remember that it’s okay if your student wants some time to themselves—they may need some time to decompress from a busy semester.ÌýÌý

3. Discuss any changes

Has a sibling moved into your student’s room? Is there a new pet in the family? Are there any changes that may take your student by surprise? Talk through any changes that may have happened while your student was away. This can help them prepare for the adjustment and reduce potential stress when they arrive.Ìý

4. Prepare for important conversations

You or your student may need to engage in an important conversation, whether it’s related to school, employment, emotional difficulties or other concerns.Ìý

Here are some things you can do to have more effective conversations around potentially tough issues:

  • Allow your student to share their experience and point of view without interruption. Try to listen openly without judgment.Ìý
  • Think about the intent and the impact of your message—sometimes what you mean to say isn’t always what the other person hears. It’s important to ask for clarification throughout the conversation to make sure everyone is on the same page.Ìý
  • If an agreement isn’t possible, allow for multiple truths. Try to see things from your student’s perspective and express your side using your perspective.

Tackling tough conversations can feel uncomfortable, and you may not always know where to start. Check out additional tips for having tough conversations, navigating disagreements and moving forward.Ìý

5. Schedule check-upsÌý

If possible, encourage your student to schedule doctor and dentist appointments while they're home over break. Now is also a great time to make sure your student has gotten a flu or COVID shot (they’re free on campus or locally with most insurance plans).Ìý

Students with the CU Gold Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) can find local providers through or use their insurance for telehealth visits with Medical Services on campus.Ìý

6. Prepare for winter

Colorado winters can be unpredictable, so it’s best to be prepared for the unexpected. Break is a great time to check in with your student to see if they are ready for winter before returning for the spring semester. Students should have plenty of warm clothing layers, a winter coat, gloves, a hat and scarf, winter boots that are waterproof and extra blankets. If your student drives, make sure they are equipped with snow tires or chains.ÌýÌý

Support resources

If your student needs additional support while they’re at home, there are resources available to help.Ìý

If you are concerned about your student’s mental health, CAPS provides a variety of mental health services for all students. They can also help family members who are concerned.Ìý

If you believe your student is experiencing a mental health crisis or needs urgent, same-day support, please call 303-492-2277.Ìý

AcademicLiveCareÌý is a free telehealth platform that allows students to attend free counseling, psychiatry, medical and nutrition appointments from anywhere, regardless of their insurance plan.Ìý

If you think your student may be struggling with substance use or other harmful behaviors, the CUCRC can help. They offer free weekly support meetings, coaching and other resources to support students in recovery or seeking recovery. Learn more about what it means to be in recovery.Ìý

OVA provides free and confidential information, consultation, support, advocacy and short-term, trauma-focused counseling services for students who have experienced and/or witnessed a traumatic, disturbing or life-disruptive event. They are familiar with a wide range of topics, including sexual assault and harassment, discrimination, microaggressions, identity-based trauma, abuse, intimate partner abuse, stalking, crime and more.Ìý

Medical Services provides a variety of services on campus, including primary care, sexual and reproductive health, vaccinations, physical therapy, massage, acupuncture, behavioral health and more. Students can also visit their full-service pharmacy to pick up or transfer prescriptions.Ìý

Family members may notice that their students are struggling or need additional support during their time at CU Â鶹ӰԺ. Red Folder is designed to help you recognize signs of distress, talk with students about your concern and help them connect with support resources on campus.Ìý

Knowing how (and when) to seek out mental health support is important, especially if you’re concerned about your student. Here are some guidelines you can use to determine if your student may need emergency, urgent or general support for mental health concerns.ÌýÌý

WellTrack is a free app with online tools and courses to help students identify, understand and address issues like stress, resiliency, anxiety and/or depression. WellTrack is a self-guided and interactive way for your student to manage their mental well-being.Ìý