I was so focused on dorm room essentials I didn’t know I had to do these 7 things ahead of my son’s college move-in

As a parent, preparing for your child’s move to college can be a whirlwind of emotions and logistics. From shopping for dorm room essentials to helping them pack up their belongings, there’s a lot to consider. However, amidst all the excitement and to-do lists, there are often some important tasks that can get overlooked. Here are 7 things you should do ahead of your son’s college move-in to ensure a smooth transition:

1. Review the College’s Move-In Guidelines

Many colleges have specific move-in procedures and guidelines that parents and students need to follow. Make sure to review this information well in advance so that you know what to expect on move-in day. This may include designated move-in times, parking instructions, and any requirements for COVID-19 testing or vaccinations.

2. Coordinate with Roommates

If your son will be sharing a dorm room with roommates, it’s a good idea to coordinate with them ahead of time. This can help avoid any conflicts or duplicate items, such as microwave or mini-fridge. You can also discuss who will bring what to minimize unnecessary items in the room.

3. Set Up a Communication Plan

Once your son is settled in at college, communication may become more sporadic. Before move-in day, discuss how often you’ll check in with each other and what preferred methods of communication are. This can help both of you manage expectations and stay connected throughout the semester.

4. Understand the Campus Resources

Familiarize yourself with the campus resources available to your son, such as the health center, academic support services, and counseling center. Knowing where these resources are located can be helpful in case your son needs assistance while he’s away from home.

5. Update Emergency Contact Information

Ensure that your son has updated emergency contact information on file with the college. This can include your contact information, as well as any other family members or close friends who should be notified in case of an emergency. Having this information up to date can provide peace of mind in case of any unforeseen circumstances.

6. Pack a Care Package

Surprise your son with a care package to welcome him to college. This can include his favorite snacks, toiletries, and a note of encouragement. A small gesture like this can go a long way in making him feel loved and supported during this new chapter of his life.

7. Take Care of Yourself

Lastly, don’t forget to take care of yourself during this transition period. It’s natural to feel a mix of emotions as your son moves away from home, but remember to prioritize self-care and seek support from friends and family. This time of change can be challenging, but it’s also an opportunity for personal growth and new experiences.

Conclusion

Preparing for your son’s college move-in involves more than just shopping for dorm room essentials. By taking care of these 7 important tasks ahead of time, you can ensure a smooth transition for both you and your son. From coordinating with roommates to setting up a communication plan, these steps can help ease the transition and make the move-in process more enjoyable for everyone involved.

FAQs

1. When should I start preparing for my son’s college move-in?

It’s a good idea to start preparing for your son’s college move-in a few weeks to a month before the actual move-in date. This allows you enough time to complete all the necessary tasks and ensure a smooth transition.

2. How can I help my son adjust to college life?

Encourage your son to get involved in campus activities and clubs, and remind him that it’s okay to feel homesick or overwhelmed at times. Keep the lines of communication open and offer support when needed.

3. What should I do if my son is struggling with homesickness?

If your son is struggling with homesickness, encourage him to reach out to campus resources such as the counseling center. Stay in touch regularly and offer words of encouragement to help him through this challenging time.