For your college students, consider buying bed linens, blankets and pillows; a laundry bag and plenty of extra hangers; a first-aid and medicine kit; and plates, bowls and utensils.


Top 5 Lessons for Your College-Bound Student

If your child is headed to college, you can help give him or her a successful start by teaching these top five lessons.

1. Teach housework 101.

Before your student leaves for college, ask if he or she needs a refresher on housekeeping basics, such as laundry, ironing, dishes and cleaning. Give a demonstration of each. This makes housework less scary.


2. Pack early and pack light.

Packing too much stuff might be a hassle when moving it, and it can make the dorm room seem small. Your student will collect more items as the years go by. Pack in advance, and store everything in one room so your student can visualize how much he or she is bringing. Don't forget: You always can mail items later.


3. Talk to the roommate before move-in day.

Communication is paramount in a good roommate relationship. Why not start early? Have your student contact his or her roommate(s) before move-in day. If his or her roommate lives close, suggest meeting ahead of time. This eliminates a lot of stress on the first day. They also can coordinate items to eliminate duplicates.


4. Don't break your back.

Purchase sturdy boxes with handles, and write your student's name and room number on them. When packing, don't fill them to the top. Break down and store the boxes for moving out later. Get a collapsible dolly or handcart to move heavy items. It's a good investment, because you'll probably be on the moving crew for the next few years.


5. Let him or her run the show.

Move-in day is your student's big debut. Let your student check in, delegate tasks, handle issues and make decisions. Be there for help and support, but don't baby your college student. You'll feel better knowing that he or she can be independent. Be a proud parent and watch your student take the lead.