5 Ways to Make this Christmas Merry!

1. Plan ahead.
Parents, consider the needs of your student as they search for a break from the stresses they've endured through the academic semester.
Students, be understanding of your parents' need to spend time with you. Be sure to make plans that include quality time with your family. This will allow them to feel apart of your life and will ultimately make for a less stressful environment.

2. Talk about your plans for the Holidays.
Parents, allow your students some freedom to re-adjust by giving them sufficient time with their friends. Understand that they want to make time for everyone during their break.
Students, let your parents know when you plan to spend time with them and when you would like to spend time with friends. This eliminates a lot of unwanted expectations.
Everyone, expect to make compromises in order to help each other enjoy the holidays, and be willing to make changes as needed.

3. Discuss the House Rules
Parents, remember that your student is no longer a child and therefore should have less restrictions than before they were in college. This will make your student feel respected and will help smooth out the adjustment process.
Students, talk with your parents about past rules and how some of them could be changed now that you have been living away from home and are truly becoming an adult.
Everyone, be willing to give a little in order to achieve a set of rules that are mutually acceptable.

4. No Surprises
Parents, your students may have some negative feelings and results from their previous semester. Try to encourage rather than lecture and punish when you're made aware of their less-than-perfect semester.
Students, prepare your parents before you arrive if you know that your grades, financial status, etc. are not going to be up to expectations. Let your parents know your plans for improvement, as well as your acknowledgement of any wrong-doing. This will ease the blow for them and help them to see your intentions for future semesters.

5. Relax
Parents and Students, however you spend your holiday break, make sure to take time for yourself and allow each other to have fun and enjoy some much needed rest and relaxation!