Guide for Parents and Family
Supporting Your Student’s Journey
The transition to university is an exciting new chapter for students and for families. As your student begins this journey, your role shifts in meaningful ways. You are still an important source of support, but now as a coach on the sidelines—encouraging, guiding and helping them build confidence as they learn to navigate their own path.
University is a time for students to grow into the adults and professionals they will become after graduation. It’s a space to explore, develop skills and build independence at their own pace.
The Power of Growth
Growth doesn't come from perfection. It comes from experience.
Throughout their university journey, students will experience both successes and setbacks. While challenges can be uncomfortable, they are often where the most meaningful learning happens.
As students encounter new situations, they gain opportunities to:
- practice problem solving;
- navigate difficult conversations;
- manage uncertainty and new emotions; and
- reflect, adapt and grow.
Our goal is not to remove obstacles from a student's path, but to help them develop the confidence and skills needed to overcome those obstacles on their own.
When students are trusted to explore solutions and learn from experiences, they begin to see themselves as capable, resourceful and resilient.
Resources for Your Student
Your Role: From Helper to Empowerer
It’s natural to want to step in when your student is struggling. However, consistently stepping in at a high level can unintentionally send the message that they cannot do it on their own.
You can support this by:
Guiding, Not Solving
Asking guiding questions instead of providing immediate solutions
Encouraging Reflection
Encouraging reflection after challenges
Celebrating Progress
Celebrating effort and progress, not just outcomes
University may not always look the way you expect and that’s okay. Each experience helps your student develop new skills, strategies and confidence that they will carry through adulthood.
Understanding the Student Experience
Transitioning to university is ongoing; it doesn’t end after the first week of classes. Students grow and adjust continuously throughout their academic journey.
Our programs are guided by Lizzio’s 5 Senses of Student Success, which highlight the key areas that support a student’s development:
| 1) Sense of Capability | Feeling equipped with the skills and knowledge to succeed academically. |
| 2) Sense of Connectedness | Building meaningful relationships and feeling a sense of belonging on campus. |
| 3) Sense of Purpose | Understanding the “why” behind their education and how it connects to future goals. |
| 4) Sense of Resourcefulness | Learning how to navigate systems, solve problems and balance academic and personal life. |
| 5) Sense of Academic Culture | Understanding expectations, norms and how to succeed within a university environment. |
Success is more than grades
These areas evolve over time, help define what success looks like and show that success is about more than grades.
Sometimes success looks like:
- trying something new;
- learning from a setback;
- building lasting friendships; and
- developing resilience.
Key Times of the Academic Year
Being aware of the rhythm of the academic year can help you better understand what your student may be experiencing.
| Academic Period | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Start of Term (September & January) |
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| Mid-Term Period (October & February) |
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| End of Term (December & April) |
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Encouraging Resourcefulness
One of the most valuable skills students can develop is knowing when and how to seek support.
Encourage your student to connect with campus resources such as:
Remind them of important dates
You can also remind them to check important academic deadlines, including add/drop dates and exam schedules.
A Final Thought
Every student’s journey is unique.
There will be moments of uncertainty and moments of pride. With your support as a steady, encouraging presence, your student can develop the skills and confidence they need to thrive.
By focusing on growth, resilience and self-discovery, you are helping your student build a strong foundation not just for university, but for life beyond it.
Connect with York University