It’s such an exciting time, but some behind-the-scenes details can easily get overlooked. Here’s a list of essential things parents of college-bound students might not be thinking about, but are crucial to consider before their child heads off to college:

Beyond Tuition and Room & Board:

• Monthly Budget Beyond the Big Bills: While tuition, housing, and meal plans are at the top of my mind, have you discussed and planned for your child’s monthly spending money? This includes things like:
  • Groceries/snacks outside the meal plan
  • Entertainment (movies, concerts, outings)
  • Personal care items (toiletries, haircuts)
  • Laundry expenses
  • Transportation costs (if applicable, beyond travel home)
  • Unexpected expenses
• Health Insurance Coverage: Understand the details of your current health insurance plan and how it extends (or doesn’t) to your child while they are away at college. Research the college’s health services and whether they offer any supplemental insurance options.
• Emergency Fund: Set aside a dedicated emergency fund that your child can access for unforeseen circumstances (e.g., unexpected travel, minor medical emergencies not covered by the college health services, essential repairs).
• Communication Plan: Establish how often you’ll communicate and through what methods (calls, texts, video chats). Discuss expectations around check-ins and how to handle emergencies.
• Transportation Logistics: If your child is taking a car, discuss maintenance, insurance, and who is responsible for what. If not, plan for travel to and from college for breaks and holidays.
• Technology and Connectivity: Consider costs for internet access if not included in housing, a reliable laptop if needed, software, and a cell phone plan that works in their new location.
• Banking and Finances: If practical, open a local bank account near the college. Discuss how your child will manage their spending money, access funds, and the importance of budgeting. Consider setting up online transfers.
• Mail and Packages: Understand how your child will receive mail and packages at college. Discuss expectations around sending care packages.
• Safety and Security: Have open conversations about campus safety, personal security, and resources available at the college. Discuss responsible decision-making regarding social activities.

Crucial Legal Documents (Once They Turn 18):

Once your child turns 18, they are legally an adult, and you no longer have automatic access to their medical or educational information, nor the legal authority to make decisions on their behalf, even in an emergency. These documents are essential to ensure you can still help them if needed:

• Healthcare Power of Attorney (HCPOA): This document designates you (or another trusted adult) as the agent to make healthcare decisions for your child if they cannot do so themselves due to illness or injury. Without this, medical professionals may be unable to share information with you or follow your guidance.
• Durable Power of Attorney for Finances: This document allows you (or another trusted adult) to manage your child’s financial affairs if incapacitated. This could be crucial for accessing funds to pay bills or manage accounts.
• HIPAA Authorization: The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) protects the privacy of medical information. This form explicitly permits healthcare providers to share your child’s medical information with you. Without it, doctors may be legally restricted from discussing their condition with you.
• FERPA Release: The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) protects the privacy of student educational records. Your child must sign a FERPA release to allow the college to share their academic information (grades, class schedule, etc.) with you.

Important Conversations:

• Expectations and Independence: Have open discussions about the balance between independence and seeking help when needed. Discuss your expectations for their academic performance, social life, and responsible behavior.
• Mental Health Resources: Familiarize yourselves and your child with the mental health resources available on campus. Encourage them to seek help if they are struggling.
• Academic Support: Discuss the academic support services offered by the college (tutoring, writing centers, advising) and encourage them to utilize these resources.
• Values and Decision-Making: Reiterate your family values and discuss how they can navigate new social situations and make responsible decisions.

Taking the time to think through these often-overlooked aspects and having open conversations with your child will help ensure a smoother transition to college for everyone involved and provide peace of mind knowing you can still support them when needed. It’s a big step, and preparation in these areas can make a significant difference!