Dropping your child off at college marks a significant milestone in their life—and a bittersweet moment for you as a parent. This day is packed with anticipation, emotions, and a sprinkle of stress. Your mission? Ensure everything goes off without a hitch.
Success on move-in day hinges on preparation and adaptability. By now, you’ve probably gathered all the necessary items (check out Target’s handy printable shopping list or Bed Bath & Beyond’s tailored online lists for various colleges) and had “The Talk” about roommates, friends, campus safety, health, drinking, and yes, the birds and the bees.
Having helped two of our kids settle into dorms 5,000 miles away, we’ve learned a thing or two about what works and what doesn’t. While it might feel daunting, these memories will soon be cherished—complete with plenty of smiling photos. You’ll be just fine!
The Do’s
- Connect with the Roommate: Encourage your child to reach out to their roommate via email or social media. This can help decide who brings what (like a mini fridge or a TV). As a parent, try not to judge their roommate based on online profiles. Remember, first impressions count!
- Arrive Early: If you can, get to the college at least a day before move-in day. This gives you time to pick up any held purchases, make last-minute buys, and explore your child’s new campus—if they’ll let you tag along!
- Get Some Rest: Ensure you’re well-rested the night before and fuel up with a hearty breakfast. Arriving groggy could lead to a less-than-stellar impression on your new roommate’s first day.
- Navigate Like a Pro: Have printed directions, schedules, and maps ready. Familiarize yourself with your route—think Navy Seal level of preparation!
- Pack Snacks and Hydration: Bring along healthy snacks and plenty of water. Save the wine for later; hydration is key to surviving the day.
- Clean Before Unpacking: A roll of paper towels and some disinfecting wipes will be your best friends. Give the room a quick clean before unpacking—it might be the only time it gets a thorough scrub all year!
- Share Contact Info: Exchange contact details with the roommate’s parents for emergencies only—not for daily snooping on your child’s activities.
- Family Photos: Sneak in a few small framed photos for their desk or nightstand. Once they see their roommate’s photos, they might regret not having a snapshot of home.
- First Aid Kit: Don’t forget a mini first aid kit stocked with essentials like pain relievers and a thermometer. You might want to keep tabs on their health from afar!
- Sleep Aids: Pack earplugs and a sleep mask. These will help your child enjoy some peace and quiet when needed, extending that blissful honeymoon phase a bit longer.
The Don’ts
- Don’t Overpack for Them: Involve your child in packing so they know what they’ve brought and where it is. If they call you asking where something is, count it as a blessing; those calls will dwindle before you know it!
- Avoid Packing the Entire Wardrobe: Dorm closets are tiny! Limit what you send, and if you must ship items, do it early to avoid long lines at the post office.
- Let Them Decorate: Don’t take over the unpacking or decorating. This is their space, and they’ll likely rearrange everything anyway!
- Keep the Door Open: While unpacking, keep the door propped open with a doorstop. You’ll be surprised how many neighbors stop by to chat—great for making new friends!
- Stay Out of Conflicts: If issues arise during move-in, let your child handle them. They’re the ones living with their roommate, after all.
- Bring Tissues but Stay Strong: It’s an emotional day—try to hold it together. Celebrate this exciting new chapter for your child!
- Capture Moments: Take lots of photos and sneak in hugs and kisses, but maybe not in front of their new roommate. Awkward!
- Attend Orientation: Don’t skip the orientation programs. They’re a great way for your child to meet new students and for you to connect with other parents.
- Send Care Packages: Include a little surprise in their suitcase and follow up with a care package a few weeks later. Snacks or small gifts are always appreciated!
- Avoid Hovering: Check in occasionally via text to show you care, but resist the urge to hover. They’ll figure things out, including personal hygiene!
Good luck on this exciting journey!
Summary
Moving your child into college is a monumental event filled with emotions and logistics. By preparing ahead of time and allowing them to take charge of their space, you can create a memorable experience. Remember to stay flexible, share in their excitement, and don’t forget the little surprises along the way.