As a parent, you want to make sure your children have all the help they need when they go away to university. It’s something we tend to think about in their final year of high school. However, often isn’t considered at any other time beforehand.
When my oldest son started college, we were not prepared. On thing that really stumped us was figuring out where to get answers. And the mounds of paperwork! By the time my youngest started his university experience, we were much better prepared.
To help you get a head start on preparing, learn from our mistakes! Use this checklist to help start your university experience off to a great start.
Here are some tips to help you make the transition easier for both student and parent:
Think About Their Wardrobe
When choosing clothes for your kids, keep in mind that it might not be practical for them to take large bags filled with lots of different clothes with them when traveling by plane or train to get to university.
Think about having a wardrobe full of classic pieces. This way, they can mix and match together rather than bringing a whole bunch of items that are more on the trendy side.
Do Some Laundry
Don’t forget about laundry! Knowing you have to take care of it yourself might make this new adventure seem even harder for your student.
It’s a good idea to give them some money so they can hire someone to do their laundry while they’re away at school. Consider buying them new sheets and towels before they leave home.
Be Their Banker
Give them access to funds outside of what will be covered by the Student Aid loans for tuition fees and living expenses. Extra-curricular activities, books, and other supplies are often not covered (unless they qualify for a special program). This will help them out with little emergencies. If they need anything like food to cook or basic supplies, it will not take away from funds designated to tuition.
Let Them Know You’re Responsible For Their Financial Situation Now That They’re In School
It’s important you tell your child that it is now your job to handle their finances while they are away at school. Even though the Student Aid loan covers tuition fees and living expenses, there might be other costs that come up throughout the year that will have to be taken care of by one of their parents (if not both), so make sure you discuss this, so everyone knows what to expect financially throughout the school year
Make Sure They Understand That You’re Not Just Going To Drop Off Their Belongings And Vanish
Having a conversation about what your child needs to do for their first week of school is important. Make sure they have a list of things on their calendar they need to do on a Sunday before classes start, such as
- doing laundry
- buying groceries
- making a shopping list
- and setting up their living space.
This will make them feel less stressed out, knowing there is a plan in place once you leave their side after moving day.
Give Them A Few Suggestions For Roommates To Ask Around
It’s always better if your student can choose who they want to live with when going off to university. However, if they opt to room with someone you didn’t know about, make sure they tell you who it is.
If there is anyone in particular that they don’t want to live with (for whatever reason), talk about the importance of respecting their personal boundaries and honoring their decision.
Talk About What To Expect The First Few Weeks Of School With Their Roommate(s) And Friends
If your child has never lived away from home before, talking to them about what might be going on during the first few weeks will help them get a better understanding of what life will be like when they get back after the holidays. They might also be feeling homesick at times, so being proactive and prepared can really help their adjustment.
Make Sure They Have The Important Numbers To Call If They Need You
Even if their friends are old enough to drive, talk to them about being safe whenever they are at a party or out on a date. Remind them that it’s okay not to drink alcohol when others are pressuring them. Also let them know they can always call you or another trusted adult if needed. This way, they will feel more comfortable about navigating social situations while away at school without feeling like they need to keep everything bottled up inside.
Be Open About Your Own College Life So That They Understands How Things Could’ve Been Different For Them
If your child chooses not to go to university or college, try having a conversation about what they might be missing out on. Let them know that going to school is one way of opening the door to life opportunities. Most importantly, it can allow them to figure out who they want to become as an adult.
Make Sure They Have A Place To Call Home, Even If It’s Only For The Holidays
The best gift you can give your kids this coming holiday season is a few days together with everyone under one roof. This will bring back memories from when they were younger – and hopefully, create new ones along the way. Making memories as a family is one of the best things both parents and kids can do before their child goes off to university.
Substance Use And The Dangers Involved
No matter how supportive a parent can be, some things are difficult to prepare your kids for. Discussing drugs and alcohol use is usually one of those topics that students want to put off until they get there. However, talking about the dangers involved with using substances might help them get through their years at school without ever feeling tempted to do it in the first place.
Remember to mention addiction treatment and what it entails, there’s always hope.
Maintain Consistent Contact And Follow Up After The First Month
Even if your child doesn’t need you anymore during the first month of university, this doesn’t mean you should back off. Let them know that you’re always available if they choose to call or text. It’s a long time away from home. Plans will sometimes change. Staying in contact through various methods of communication is crucial to ensure that they always feel safe and happy.
There You Have It!
As you can see, there are many things you need to do in order for the transition to go smoothly for both your child and yourself. The above tips range from practicalities to feelings, but regardless of the topic, make sure you prepare for school this spring or fall!
Good luck, parents!
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