Expect change. Respect your student's new found independence. Let your student set their own schedule i.e., visiting friends, etc. Your student may want to spend most of the time out of the house i.e., visiting friends, etc. Maintain a sense of balance and a sense of humor. Let your student know your expectations. Consider adjusting them and be clear when communicating them. Recognize that there are no curfews in college. If you need to have a serious conversation, timing is everything! It is normal for you to miss an empty house! You are not a bad parent if you are ready for your student to leave when the break is over! Do things that remind your student of home i.e., favorite meals, restaurants. Take your student shopping (grocery, clothes, etc.) before they leave.