To Do. Some things need to be done even before the packing.
- • Consider applying for a credit card in the student’s name. Be sure to establish the rules for its use–emergencies, a dollar limit, etc. If your student will be responsible for payment, encourage him to pay the balance each month. Not only can this card be peace of mind for both of you, it can begin to establish his credit.
• Record serial numbers and place them along with warranty and owner’s manuals, and any other important papers your student may need–loan papers, for example–in a designated file or storage bin.
• Check with your insurance company about your student’s health coverage (and auto insurance if she will take a car). Discuss the requirements with her–where to go, paperwork involved, necessary identification. Make sure she has the proper identification, policy numbers, etc.
• Schedule routine check-ups–a physical, dental cleaning, eye exam–so any problems or care can be addressed before your child leaves home.
• Tune up appropriate belongings going with your student–car, bike, cell phone.
• Research the school as thoroughly as possible. If the information packets they send don’t answer all your questions, do ask. Do they provide cleaning service? Linens? Are cooking facilities available? Is everything on campus within walking distance? What resources–shopping, transportation, etc–does the surrounding community offer?
• Make an inventory of everything your child will take. It will be a record if something gets lost in transit, will be a checklist for him when he packs to return home, and provides you with a shopping list, especially to be aware of sale items.
• Teach your child basic skills she will need to function independently.
To Teach. While there are many skills adult children should possess by the time they truly leave home, a few should be taught as soon as possible. It’s to your child’s benefit to be comfortable and proficient in these when she heads off to school.
- • If your child doesn’t have his own savings and checking account, don’t wait any longer. Make sure he knows how to properly write a check, balance his statement, use an ATM, and the difference between credit, ATM, and debit cards.
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