5 Tips to Help Your Child Settle Into College Life

Just in 2019 in the US, 19.6 million young adults enrolled in universities across the country. So, if you have been preparing to see your little ones go off to college, you are not the only one. But how can you make sure that you are giving them the highest level of support?

Every child is different, and each of them will have different expectations from a college. Which makes it very difficult for parents to understand what they are going through. Nonetheless, going to college is an experience made of hundreds of rites of passage – and your support can truly make a difference in your child’s experience.

Use the tips below to be by their side without stepping on their feet.

Help Them Find Suitable Accommodation Options

Finding the right student housing or accommodation option can make or break the college experience for your child. After all the friendships they will build over the first months at their new university can remain the same throughout their education and career journey. So, helping them find the right accommodation is a must.

Some tips to point them in the right direction include:

Location and distance from campus
Public transport options
The proximity of amenities and facilities
The area’s safety
The house itself

Create a Budget Together

In the US, nearly 40% of students are worried about their financial situation while going to college. Of course, you can help them from a financial viewpoint. However, it can also be helpful for them to learn how to craft – and stick to – a budget.

Depending on their school responsibilities, free time, and financial needs, you might also consider your child to find a part-time job that can help them support their lifestyle and goals.

Support Their Mental Wellbeing

Supporting your child’s mental health is important throughout every phase of their lives – but it is particularly important when they are leaving home to go to university! Indeed, it is easy for them to feel overwhelmed by their new social groups, living arrangements, distance from their family, competition, and workload.

While they might not feel ready to talk to you about new experiences and people they have met, you should always strive to be present and supportive – and don’t forget that your college kids will always love a care package!

Help Them Plan a Healthy Diet

It is not surprising that the majority of college students are struggling with their diet. While they mostly struggle due to a lack of funds and time, there is a lot you can do to help them live healthily.

After all, getting all the necessary nutrients and vitamins is particularly important for college students who need to focus and learn throughout the day. For example, helping them devise a smart shopping list can be the first step to take.

Ensure They Are Safe

In most cases, university life is safe and enjoyable for most students. However, the physical, social, and mental impact of such a sudden lifestyle change can represent a major risk to their wellbeing. Help them keep safe – on campus and outside – and make sure they have all the knowledge needed to avoid unnecessary risks.