Joanna Gaines Shares Emotional Advice for Parents Facing College Dorm Move-In Day: ‘Wishing Time Would Slow Down’

HGTV star Joanna Gaines knows a thing or two about pulling off a successful home renovation, but recently, the mother of five dropped some helpful knowledge about another topic she’s become well-acquainted with—college move-in day.In an Aug. 16 Instagram post, the “Fixer Upper” co-host opened up about the bittersweet experience of having children move away from home.“To all the parents sending their kids off to college… I know that feeling all too well,” Joanna wrote alongside a collection of photos from memorable occasions such as 19-year-old daughter Ella Gaines’ 2025 high school graduation and subsequent move.“Thinking of all the parents sending their kids off to college this season. I’ve been on that side of move-in day… as hard as that goodbye is, there’s nothing more fulfilling than watching your kid grow beyond you—it’s one of the greatest gifts of being a parent,” she continued. “May you find joy, comfort, and gratitude in letting go.”The Magnolia entrepreneur empathized with parents of university-bound children, nodding to the familiar emotions behind “holding on a little tighter before letting go” and “feeling proud of who they’re becoming and wishing time would slow down...