As high school comes to an end for many seniors, it’s time to start thinking about how to prepare for their next adventure: college. For many soon-to-be freshmen, going away to school is a completely new experience. If your son or daughter is anxious about what they’re about to encounter in college, here are some helpful tips to read to them.
Be Prepared for Noise
Living in a dorm room means nothing but noise. Seven to nine hours of sleep per night are generally recommended, but not always achievable in a dorm setting. People are always playing music, screaming in the hallways, and having parties with their friends. The noise might not only be coming from outside of your child’s room; it can be coming from inside as well. If they have a roommate who snores or talks on the phone really loudly, they’ll have to come up with some ways to make sleeping easier. And you can help with that. Suggest ear plugs, a sleep mask, and some comfortable white cotton nighties or pajamas. The cute nighties will put them in a space of comfort and relaxation as they try and drift off into dreamland. These pajamas and nighties are breathable so they will keep them cool at night but they are warm enough when the temperature starts to drop.
Be Prepared to Be Around Different Types of Personalities
Since college is a mixture of many different people, it’s also a space for many different personalities. Not everyone in their dorm building will act the same or have the same interests. Many of them may not see eye-to-eye on a lot of topics. This is just something all new college freshmen will come to realize after the first few months at college. Teach your child about dealing with different types of people and that it is okay to have a different opinion. Don’t let this intimidate them though, having a different perspective is a good thing because it teaches you to embrace the unfamiliar.
Be Aware of the Freshman 15
The freshman 15 is alive and well with all of the delicious options in the dining halls. And while they may be delicious, a majority of them aren’t the best to eat. Even though it’s tempting to eat chicken fingers and french fries on a daily basis (since they can have as much as they want), explain to your child that exercise and a healthy diet is important. The last thing they’ll want to do is gain the freshman 15 as soon as they get to college because it might make them lose their self confidence altogether. Talk to them about different healthier options such as salads, wraps, and grilled chicken. They don’t have to give up the junk food completely, but putting a limit on it can be a big help.
If your child has never experienced going away for school in the past, they might not know what to expect. Before they head off, teach them how to live with other personalities, what to wear to bed, how to eat properly, and the importance of getting at least 6-9 hours of sleep a night.
Every child will go out and explore the world after graduating high school. Whether that means going to college or going to travel for a year, a good night’s sleep and a healthy diet and lifestyle will be crucial for them to get the most out of their next chapter.