It's not easy letting go of the role of chief planner in your child's life. But, that is one of the first steps in cutting the proverbial cord when sending him off to college. You can start by taking the role of silent partner during his senior year in high school as he goes through the college application process. If you are too heavily involved, you will be known as a 'helicopter parent' who is constantly hovering around. Instead, take note of the following suggestions:

It's not easy letting go of the role of chief planner in your child's life. But, that is one of the first steps in cutting the proverbial cord when sending him off to college. You can start by taking the role of silent partner during his senior year in high school as he goes through the college application process. If you are too heavily involved, you will be known as a 'helicopter parent' who is constantly hovering around. Instead, take note of the following suggestions:

1. Support, don't criticize. For example, if you don't necessarily agree with your child's choice for a major, keep it to yourself. Instead, say things like, "You are young and bright and the whole world is yours to explore." Remember, any lessons that are meant to be learned will happen regardless of how you handle things. Your role is to empower them to discover who they are.

2. Listen, listen, and listen some more. Instead of filling dead air with your thoughts and experiences, pose a thoughtful question and wait for him to answer it. While it can be hard to encourage your teenager to pontificate something as lofty as the rest of his life, it can be telling to see what he has to say about his goals and dreams for himself. This is his time to do so, not yours.

3. Keep the high school connection strong. Here is where you help will likely be needed the most. There will be a lot of informative meetings about financial aid, application letters, etc. and your child will appreciate you keeping it all straight with him. You could make a big calendar with deadlines and dates for an easy glance for the whole family to know what is going on and when.

4. Become the cheerleader. You can show your enthusiasm (and love) for your child's future by celebrating the successes and supporting him during the disappointments along the way. By all means, when there's good news make a big deal of it. Keep in mind that one of the most important things he'll need to take to that dorm with him is a healthy self esteem.

While it's hard to let go a little and perhaps watch as you see what you think will be a mistake, it's important to let your child think through his own future. There will be plenty of time for him to reevaluate from time to time. This is his time to soar. Sit back with your eyes and ears open and be ready to help when asked, not before.