kbrown

Our oldest son is an incoming freshman. His dad and I are planning to bring along his 7 younger siblings, aged 16 down to 4 months, to drop him off and attend the orientation activities. Is this unworkable? For example, I've noticed that in the orientation brochure, some of the events are designated "for students and parents" while others are "for students and their families." Is the former set of activities off-limits to young siblings? If so, what can the other children do/where can they be during these events? (We are driving from 700 miles away and have no local friends or family.)

kevdude

The events for "students and parents" consist mostly of unbearably boring lectures, information sessions with dry speakers patting Notre Dame on the back for hours on end. Then there's a barbecue or two.

Workable? Yea, I guess. But I wouldn't recommend it.

momtofour

Kbrown,
We brought my other children to orientation last August. Many families do have the siblings there so you will not be the only one. Kevdude is correct. On Saturday, orientation will be in the Joyce Center and there are speakers upon speakers touting Notre Dame. I would just make sure that the kids have books, gameboys, coloring books etc. to keep them occupied. Bring plenty as this is at least 3 hours. Sunday again you will be in the Joyce Center for mass, a box lunch and the ending program. I was never concerned or self-conscious about our other 3 children. (and there were some with strollers and crying babies..) It is a special time and a wonderful weekend and I think that it creates a special memory for the entire family. I was really glad that we all did it together. At this point I hope you have your hotel rooms booked. Please feel free to PM me if you have any other questions.