Independence at last...

Beyond Sixth Form your daughter may leave home to go to college and be living independently for some of the year. Hopefully you will have helped her prepare for this exciting but daunting stage by guiding on how to manage her finances as well as giving her the necessary domestic skills. Most girls welcome this next step but will still welcome your practical help and emotional reassurance. With your help your daughter should have acquired the self discipline she will need to make a successful transition.

She will probably still want to come home to her own room and will continue to want your praise and encouragement. Even at this age girls can switch from competent young adult to needy child when life gets complicated. Unlike young teenagers this age group are prepared to accept that parents might know best!
Some girls experience difficulty adjusting to the extra independence. The more self confidence and independence you can give her in her earlier years the more likely she will adapt successfully. University and colleges have advisory and support services to help your daughter if she has special physical, educational or emotional needs.

Your relationship with her will be increasingly one of equals but she will always be your daughter.