Parenting Shrink Wrapped
Parenting Shrink Wrapped is your all-access pass to the wild and wonderful journey of raising kids! Hosted by Dr. Melissa Wellner, a double board-certified psychiatrist and child and adolescent psychiatrist, and Samantha Straub, a licensed therapist, educator, and parenting coach, this dynamic duo brings a perfect mix of professional expertise and mom humor. With five kids between them—and thousands more they’ve supported in their professional roles—they’re here to share practical strategies and real-life stories that will help you navigate everything from tantrums to teen drama. Whether you're handling sleepless nights or the chaos of carpool, you'll find relatable advice and a good laugh along the way. Strap in, because parenting is a ride, and we're here to make it a little smoother!
Parenting Shrink Wrapped
#36 Nature of the Beast | Parenting a College Freshman with Dr. Kelly Wilcox
College drop-off isn’t the end of parenting—it’s just the beginning of a new phase. In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Kelly Wilcox, Dean of Student Success at Haverford College, to talk about what parents can expect as their teen transitions to college. From the emotional rollercoaster of move-in day to mid-semester meltdowns, we explore how to support your student without overstepping.
We cover:
- What the “invisible fifth class” really is
- How to foster independence and resilience
- What to do when they want to transfer two weeks in
- How parenting evolves sophomore year and beyond
Whether your teen is heading off for the first time or still finding their way, this episode is full of real talk and reassuring perspective.
🎧 Listen now and share with a fellow college parent!
Resources
- Learn more about Dr. Wilcox
- Read this related blog post: Parenting with College Kids
About Kelly
In her role as the Dean of Student Success at Haverford College, Kelly strives to foster advising relationships that feel accessible, welcoming, personalized, and meaningful. As an undergraduate she studied Political Science and International Relations at Swarthmore College, with a focus on East Asian Studies. She completed her Master's in Psychological Services at the University of Pennsylvania, as well as her Doctorate in Higher Education Administration. She is also a certified Life Coach, ADHD Coach and Health Coach.
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Dr. Melissa: Annapolis Psychiatry
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