PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – On this Father’s Day, one of the toughest things Dad has to do is let go when it’s time for his child to leave the nest.

Now that the Class of 2011 has graduated, many Delaware Valley dads are experiencing “empty nest syndrome.” A local Rabbi offers some words of wisdom for those who are wandering around the house wondering what happened and where the kids went.

Rabbi Elliot Holin of Congregation Kol Ami in Elkins Park knows of what he speaks; two of his three sons are in college, his youngest begins his last year of high school in September and he remembers what it was like when his oldest left.

“I kept saying to people my head gets the message that we give our kids wings to fly. It’s just my heart wasn’t getting that message,” said Holin.

Rabbi Holin says as hard as it is daily contact with your child is not absolutely necessary and for the year before they leave it is not unusual for them to become argumentative because they are trying to distance themselves.

“It’s good to stay in touch but stay in light touch. Your child knows that you are there for him or her. Let him or her initiate calls and understand that covenant between parent and child is everlasting but let him or her initiate contact.”

You can hear Michelle Durham’s interview with Rabbi Elliot Holin in this CBS Philly ‘Specials Place’ podcast…