U.S.News.com posted a great article directed towards parents whose sons or daughters are currently applying to colleges.  The post outlines the eight “guiding principles” for parents from author and former dean of admission, Marillee Jones.
The principles illustrate important points that will help families “keep the peace” through the admission process.  To this list, I would add the ninth principle of “keep the lines of communication open”.  While Jones illustrates the importance of parents not sharing their own anxiety with their children, it is also important to create an environment where your child feels comfortable sharing his or her anxiety with you (and her eight principles will help you do that).  The admissions process can damage the ego, so it is vital that your child feels comfortable having you beside them as they go through all of the ups and downs.
 
Katherine Price
Educational Consultant