When a child leaves for college, parents are often faced with a range of considerations and emotions. Here are some important things to think about:
1. Financial Planning:
- Understand the cost of tuition, room, board, books, and other fees.
- Establish who is responsible for which expenses.
- Discuss responsible credit card and money management.
2. Health Care:
- Confirm health insurance coverage, especially if the college is out of state.
- Consider a Health Care Power of Attorney. This allows parents to make medical decisions if the child is unable to do so.
- Ensure your child has necessary medical records and understands any ongoing health needs.
3. Academic Expectations:
- Discuss academic goals and how they fit into long-term plans.
- Encourage time management skills for balancing coursework, extracurriculars, and personal time.
4. Emotional Support:
- Talk about the changes and how they might impact both the student and the parent.
- Be available for support but also respect their growing independence.
5. Safety:
- Discuss basic safety considerations, such as not walking alone at night, securing personal belongings, and understanding the location's emergency response system.
6. Legal Documents:
- Consider a Durable Power of Attorney. This allows parents to handle financial or legal matters on the child's behalf.
- In case of an emergency, it may be helpful to have access to academic records through a FERPA release form.
7. Life Skills:
- Make sure your child has basic life skills like doing laundry, cooking simple meals, and maintaining a clean living environment.
Every child and situation is unique, so these considerations may vary. The key is open and respectful communication between parents and their college-bound child.