Welcome to the StFX community. We view parents as our partners in educating students. We value this relationship and want to ensure that it remains strong.

"Just Because" Gift Packages

Just because you want to send your best wishes. A special care package is a wonderful way to let your loved one know that you are thinking about them while they are away from home. More »

Understanding a student's first semester

Having some idea of the challenges your student will face can help you be an effective support person. More »

Tips for Parenting through the University Years

Every family is unique as is each individual within it. Everyone is likely to have their own experience of this life passage, with their own particular challenges, joys, expectations, and concerns. However, there are a number of ways you may help to nurture your relationship with your university student:

• Set reasonable expectations about academics: Your student may have been a super-academic achiever in high school, but may not get straight- A’s in university. Your expectations continue to influence the expectations your student sets for himself or herself. Help them to accept that doing the best they can is terrific, even if they do not make the Dean’s list. If they truly do need academic assistance, encourage them to seek it out.
• Be a good listener: When problems arise at school – which they inevitably will do – listen carefully to what your student says. Support them in exploring options and finding their own solutions, without taking it upon yourself to solve the problems for them.
• Be emotionally supportive: Be positive and encouraging, but don’t push them to follow a particular course of action, or pressure them about grades or career choices. You can be clear in expressing your own opinions, but trying to impose them on your student is likely to create unproductive onflict rather than positive change.
• Stay in touch: It can be tricky to walk the line between maintaining connection with your student and giving them the space they need at this age. Email, letters, care packages, and phone calls from home can help fight homesickness. Express interest in your student’s experiences at school, and ask them about their classes, activities, and friends. If your budget allows, a little spending money, or a gift card in a small amount from a local store, can help your student get a special meal off-campus or pick up a small specialty item to brighten up their day.
• Ask them what they need from you: When you are not sure what to do, it’s okay to ask your child what they feel they need from you at that moment. They may want you to just listen while they “vent” about something, without having you respond or be helpful. Read More »