Dropping Our Son at University: Thoughts from a Mum, Teacher, and Executive Function Coach.

This weekend, my husband and I joined the motorway crowds, car packed to the roof, to drop off our second son at university. Returning home to a very quiet house, I found myself reflecting on this big milestone.

Receiving a late dyslexia diagnosis after several years of disengagement with education, he didn’t give up and we are in awe of his determination and resilience. Supporting students through this transition requires attention to both practical skills and emotional wellbeing.

Reflections as a Mum

From my personal mother point of view. I hope he:

• Occasionally does a bit of washing,

• Eats some fruit,

• Remembers to drink enough water and

• Tries to get into a suitable bedtime routine.

Even small routines like these support student wellbeing and independence.

Reflections as an educator

From an educational perspective, I hope he:

• Engages fully in his subject,

• Remembers how he learns best, and

• Uses knowledge gained from his gap year to prepare for academic life.

Developing effective study strategies early can make the transition to university smoother and more manageable.

Reflections as an Executive Function Coach

Executive function skills are crucial for students adjusting to independent life. I hope he:

• Builds routines that support wellbeing, not just studies,

• Learns to manage his time and energy, not only deadlines,

• Finds ways to stay organised that actually work for him,

• Knows when to ask for help and feels confident doing so,

• Recognises his strengths, especially when things get tough, and

• Feels proud of his progress, even when it isn’t perfect.

These skills help students manage both academic responsibilities and personal wellbeing.

Back to Reality

Naturally, within minutes of getting home, we were back on Amazon ordering the bits he forgot!

This conversation started on LinkedIn, where parents and fellow educators shared their thoughts.

Supporting Students Through the Transition

If your child could benefit from executive function coaching to support the transition to university life, I offer tailored packages focused on routines, study strategies, and student wellbeing. Early support with organisation skills, time management, and confidence can make a real difference in academic and personal success.

What is Executive Functioning?

According to Connections in Mind, executive functioning is:

An umbrella term to describe a set of cognitive processes that enable people to filter distractions, prioritise tasks, set and achieve goals and control impulses.

In a nutshell it’s our brain’s toolkit for staying organised, focussed and in control. If you would like to know more about how executive function coaching could support you or someone you know at or going to university get in touch.