The countdown is on...for many parents.  In the next few weeks, thousands of college freshmen will start their new lives.  And, thousands of parents will find themselves coping with their child being away from home for an extended period for the first time in their lives.

Some parents have difficulty making this transition - they can't seem to let go and remain involved in their child's everyday life, even from a great distance.  The "worst" of these are called "helicopter parents" by Residence Life and Student Affairs professionals on campuses across the country.  Why?  Because they "hover" and "land".

Here is an article I recently found on "Eye On Students", which is a free e-newsletter for higher educational professionals who interact with students:  Redirecting Pushy Parents:  How to Build Healthier Relationships.  It's always good to get the "other side's" perspective.