Sending Care Packages! Parent’s Corner tips.

While it’s important to give your child space to gain independence when they are living off-campus in college, you can still let them know you’re thinking of them. Whether they admit it or not—they want to know you care. Sending occasional care packages is the perfect way to remind your son or daughter that you’re thinking of them.

Fill the care packages with a combination of the practical and the special:

• A roll of quarters for the laundry machine may come at just the right time.
• Something homemade, like a loaf of your famous banana bread, will be the perfect reminder of home. Plus, there will be enough to share with roommates—making them, and you, even more appreciated.
• If they have a test coming up, perhaps add a gift card to Starbucks or a bag of dark chocolate espresso beans.
• Your child’s favorite candy or treat. Anything that reminds them of home will make them happy.
• A decorative item. Some good examples are a small poster of their favorite band or sports team, a picture of your family, a fake flower in a vase or Washi Tape. Don’t forget to include Command Strips so your child doesn’t ruin the paint on the walls.
• School supplies. This might sound boring, but students are always running out of pens, pencils, mini staplers/staples and various other things. Getting new school supplies creates one less run to the store to pick up those much needed missing or stolen pens/pencils.
• Even if you text or talk on the phone often, include a short, but thoughtful note to put into words how your feel.

Don’t be surprised if you suddenly get a more enthusiastic “Hey mom!” next time you call. Your student will love receiving care packages from you, especially when you add items that they need or want.

What are some other items you might add in your student’s care packages? You can share your suggestions in the comment section below.