Connect Lehigh vs Parenting First

The public facing Connect Lehigh companion app displays the same content as the Connect Lehigh web application, providing a consistent experience for students, faculty, and staff. The mobile app improves the user experience by incorporating native mobile features such as: navigation icons for home, search (discover), calendar, notifications, and main menu, all located at the bottom of the app; external links are opened as an overlay that provides intuitive navigation back to the app; and push notifications related to posted notifications in the Connect Lehigh web application. Additionally, there are mobile communication features included, allowing a phone number to launch the phone app, selecting an address launches the map app, and selecting an email address launches the email app.

ParentingFirst is a digital support platform designed to help parents navigate their child’s transition into the first year of college. The app focuses on reducing stress and providing important information during this period by providing structured guidance, expert-informed resources, and practical tools tailored to you. The platform delivers a series of modules that walk parents through key phases such as understanding campus life (including academics, mental health, and substance use), supporting independence, and maintaining healthy communication once the student is away from home. Each module combines your responses to key questions with short-form educational content. Our goal is to avoid overwhelming parents and students with information and provide you access to timely resources all in one place. Content is developed by parents who have gone through the process as well as experts familiar with student development and higher education environments. ParentingFirst is intended to serve as both a practical guide and a steady source of reassurance during a period that can feel unpredictable. More information about the platform and its resources can be found at www.parentingfirst.org.