Preparing for move-in day is all about being organized and adaptable. By now, you should have gathered all the essentials (check out Target’s handy printable shopping list and Bed Bath & Beyond’s tailored online lists for various colleges) and had “The Talk” covering topics like roommates, campus safety, health, social life, and yes, the big S-E-X.
Having successfully moved two kids into college across 5,000 miles, we’ve learned a thing or two about what works and what doesn’t. Those days are now cherished memories, complete with smiles and laughter (and plenty of photos to prove it). Yours will be too!
Do’s:
- Encourage your child to reach out to their roommate through email or social media platforms. This initial contact often helps them decide who will bring items like a mini-fridge or TV. As a parent, you might be tempted to scrutinize their roommate’s social media. Try to keep comments to yourself, even if you think, “Wow, they really like to party.”
- If possible, arrive at least a day early to allow time for picking up any held purchases, making last-minute stops, and exploring the campus—if your child is okay with you tagging along.
- Get a good night’s sleep before the big day and fuel up with a hearty breakfast. Arriving sleepy and grumpy is a recipe for disaster, and you want to make a great first impression on your child’s roommate.
- Print out your move-in directions, schedule, and maps in advance. Familiarizing yourself with the layout will help you approach the day like a pro.
- Pack healthy snacks and plenty of water—save the wine for after the chaos is over. (We opted for a case of water for the room instead.)
- Bring along a small toolkit, duct tape, and sticky hooks, but also include paper towels and cleaning wipes for a quick room refresh before unpacking. This might be the only time that space gets a thorough cleaning all year.
- Exchange contact info with the roommate and their parents for emergency purposes only. No spying allowed!
- Don’t forget small framed family photos for their desk or nightstand. Even if they say they don’t want them, they’ll appreciate having a piece of home nearby once they see their roommate’s pictures.
- Include a compact First Aid Kit with essentials like pain relievers and a thermometer. They will get sick—trust me.
- Pack earplugs, headphones, and a sleep mask. This way, they can enjoy some downtime without disturbing each other, extending that sweet honeymoon phase a bit longer.
Don’ts:
- Avoid packing everything for your child. Involve them in the process so they’ll know what they have and where it is. Even if they call you asking for help, cherish those moments—they will become rare.
- Don’t overpack! College closets are small, and shipping items can lead to frustratingly long lines at the post office. Arrive early to avoid the chaos.
- Steer clear of taking control during unpacking or decorating. This is their space to personalize, and they’ll likely rearrange everything anyway once you leave.
- Keep the door open while unpacking; it invites neighbors to drop by and can be a great icebreaker. You’ll be amazed at how many curious faces show up!
- If conflicts arise during move-in, let your child handle it. They’ll be living with their roommate, not you.
- Bring tissues, but try to stay composed. While it’s an emotional milestone, it’s also an exciting time for your child and a celebration of their achievements.
- Capture as many photos as possible and sneak in hugs and kisses—just not in front of their new roommate.
- Don’t skip orientation events. They may seem dull, but they’re a fantastic way for your child to meet new people and learn more about their school.
- Pack a little surprise in their suitcase, like a small gift or note. Sending a care package with some of their favorite snacks or fun items 4-6 weeks later can also brighten their day.
- Resist the urge to hover. A quick text or call can show you care, but let them navigate their own path. They’ll figure things out—eventually!
This article was originally published on March 14, 2011.
Summary
Moving your child into college can be a mix of excitement and anxiety. Being prepared with essential items, communication with roommates, and a positive mindset can make the day smoother. Remember to give them space to establish their independence while cherishing the moments you have together. For more tips and advice on parenthood, check out our other resources, including our guide on home insemination kits at Make a Mom. For additional information on fertility and insemination, explore Cleveland Clinic’s podcast.
Keyphrase: College Move-In Day Tips
Tags: [“home insemination kit” “home insemination syringe” “self insemination”]