Other tips from this mom of 3 and recipient of almost 8 years of CC advice -
- If making the bed for your child makes you feel better - do it in this way:
Foam mattress topper, then mattress pad to keep it in place, then two fitted sheets with a $20 in between,then two pillowcases on the pillow. You can advise your student to at least take off the top fitted sheet/pillowcase at some time in the semester to have a “clean” sheet underneath and you’ll know when if they mention the $20
** this only works freshman year, after that you’re not allowed in the room !
- If you’re emotional, say your “goodbyes” at home:
Take the time to say whatever you want to say to them in the quiet confines of your own home (brings tears to my eyes just thinking about it ). Then tell them when it’s time for you to leave campus you’re just going to give them a quick squeeze and leave. No one wants their parents in their dorm room, dorm hallway or anywhere else on campus creating a scene. It can be an emotional, crowded, chaotic time - don’t add to it .
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SERIOUSLY listen to the advice to bring less. As others have mentioned, you can Amazon Prime them anything a few weeks after they settle in. Leave at least 1/3 of the clothes they plan to bring at home with the promise that you’ll send what they want in a UPS box in 2 - 3 weeks. Don’t be surprised if they don’t want any of it.
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Fan and a back pack that you pack with - power cords, simple tools, scissors, cold bottled water, granola bars, door stop and a few large black trash bags. Add canister of chlorox pop-up wipes if you want but your student won’t care.
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Consider leaving much younger siblings at home if at all possible. It seems that they’re mostly tired, bored and hot. Will also give you a chance to spend some last special time with your college student
Good luck and enjoy the day !