Preparing for Your Deac’s Winter Break
Final exams begin December 8, which means a well-deserved Winter Break is right around the corner!
As excited as we all are for this reunion, it is important to remember that your college student is not the high schooler who left back in August. Their return home requires an adjustment for both students and families. Your Deac has been living an independent life, and negotiating new rules can cause friction.
We encourage you to acknowledge these changes and discuss ground rules before your student comes home. Knowing what to expect ahead of time can prevent conflicts once the break is underway.
Here are a few common areas families may need to navigate during Winter Break:
Adjusting to Home Life: Potential Negotiation Points
| Challenge Area | What to Expect | Discussion Points |
|---|---|---|
| Sleep Schedules | College schedules often lead to a more nocturnal lifestyle, with students sleeping in late and staying up late. | Negotiate expectations for shared activities, mealtimes, and noise levels that suit the whole family. |
| Socializing | Your Deac will likely crave social time with high school and local Wake friends, which is healthy. | Discuss the balance between time spent out with friends and quality family time, especially around the holidays. |
| Curfew | Most college students live without a set curfew. You may want a boundary for their safety and peace of mind. | Have a frank conversation about your expectations for late nights and find a compromise that respects their independence while ensuring your comfort. |
| Cleanliness | Students may come home with different standards for laundry, showering, or room tidiness than you prefer. | Clearly communicate the household standards for personal habits and common areas to avoid frustration. |
| Alcohol | Families may need to navigate their own policies regarding students under 21 consuming alcohol (e.g., a glass of wine at a holiday dinner). | Be clear about your family’s boundaries regarding underage drinking, even in your own home, as laws still apply. |
| The Student’s Room | If the “old” room has been substantially changed (remodeled as an office, given to a sibling), it can feel jarring to a returning student. | Be sensitive to this; their room is a physical touchpoint of home. Discuss any permanent changes beforehand. |
We encourage you to use this guide to start a calm conversation with your Deac now. By setting ground rules upfront, you can help ensure a joyful and restful Winter Break for everyone.