For almost twenty years you have nurtured and raised your child or children. They are going off to college and you can't help but wonder if they are ready. Some are more prepared than others. While your child may be academically ready for the new challenges they may face, he or she might need reassurance that they (and you) will be fine where ever they go. You will miss them and they just  might be surprised that they miss you too.

If your student has learned to cook and eat in a healthy way, they are less likely to suffer from the pounds normally accumulated by college freshmen. They should know how to cook if they live in an apartment or how to choose wisely from the cafeteria foods. Budgeting money for fixed expenses is essential. If they run out of grocery money before the end of the week, they just might have to establish priorities and take money from their entertainment money. They will learn by trial and error and survive by doing so. A first aid kit for headaches, small cuts and burns is a must. If your child is on your insurance policy, make sure they have two copies of your insurance card that they keep in separate places. Your student also needs to be able to balance a checkbook and know that some transactions carry additional fees. Be clear about what you will and won't pay for.

You should have academic expectations clear. They have probably experienced many of the temptations of the social life. You need to reiterate the consequences of impulsive and irresponsible behaviors. Your child needs to know how often you can expect to hear from them. Parents need to be reasonable in their requests and students need to be responsible and caring enough to call, text, or email. Your college bound students need to know that you are proud of them, that you love them, and respect the young adult they have become. They need to know that you have faith in their survival. Just remember that each student you send to college is an individual and will adjust accordingly. Parents should take the time to rejoice in the fact that they have raised their child to the best of their abilities. If you didn't send a small recipe book with them, keep yours nearby for when you receive the calls asking for specific recipes. I'm glad I did <smile>.