Books on College Admissions: The Launching Years
Navigating the transition from high school to college can be overwhelming for both parents and students—The Launching Years by Kastner and Wyatt offers practical, research-backed advice.
Books on College Admissions: The Launching Years
At the risk of oversharing, we took our daughter on a few “admitted student” tours over this past winter break. She’s a senior in high school. We roadtripped across several states and my wife and I couldn’t help but wonder if this would be our last road trip as a full family?!?!
The Launching Years, by Laura S. Kastner (PhD) and Jennifer Wyatt (PhD)
Published in 2002
Amazon https://a.co/d/5nSeUzH
My Rating: 4 stars
There are emotional and practical challenges that come with transition from high school to college - my family is busy living them :).
The Launching Years explores this topic fully. It focuses on the senior year of high school and the first year of college as critical phases and covers -
The impact of this transition on family dynamics.
Managing college applications, “senioritis,” and stress.
Parenting from a distance and helping students navigate independence.
Common challenges like academic struggles, social adjustments, and new freedoms (alcohol, relationships, etc.).
Advice for parents on self-care and redefining their roles post-launch
The emotional and practical challenges of the transition from high school to college.
How Will This Book Help You?
Provides Perspective – Helps parents understand what their teen is going through emotionally and developmentally.
Guides a Supportive, Balanced Approach – Offers strategies to stay involved without overstepping, fostering independence while being a safety net.
Addresses the Emotional Rollercoaster – Prepares parents for the mix of excitement, anxiety, and uncertainty that comes with sending a child to college.
Practical Tips for the Transition – Covers real-world strategies for communication, handling setbacks, and setting boundaries.
For parents facing the college transition (such as myself!), The Launching Years is a valuable resource filled with actionable insights and reassuring guidance.
With the right mindset and strategies, you can support your teen’s independence while staying connected—helping them (and yourself) navigate this exciting new chapter with confidence.