Anonymous wrote:Balance tough love -- reasonable limits clearly stated and enforced firmly, but without lecturing or personal attacks -- with letting them know that you believe in them. Get to know their culture and their friends -- not by snooping, but through genuine interest. Ask their opinions about things -- politics, books, movies, school policies, etc. Respect them, but expect them to respect you as well. When things get tough, walk away for a while and find your own means of escape -- running, yoga, funny movies.
My children are in college. Snooping is needed. Otherwise you are not going to know the real life of your kids. Nor their friends.