Preparing Teens for Dorm Life
A Checklist of What to Bring to College
Jul 10, 2009 Kristin Colangelo
While most teenagers are probably daydreaming about the whole college experience, most parents are busily trying to think of everything that their child will possibly need to begin life in a college dormitory away from home. This process doesn't have to be difficult when parents know how to go about getting their teen ready for move in day!
Consult the College
First, check with the college to see if they have a specific list of items they recommend that students bring. Many colleges post this on their websites or send a list when parents or students make dormitory accommodations. If not, call the college to see if they have specific recommendations.
Next, find out what the college prohibits in the dorms. Many colleges have lists of items that they don't allow students to have in their room (mostly items which could be a fire hazard), so parents will want to make sure they aren't bringing items they will have to take back home with them. This list is typically also on the college's website, but if it is hard to find, call the school to ask about prohibited items.
Contact The Roommate(s)
Teens should also be in contact with their roommate(s) so that they can make joint decisions on who will be bringing larger or more expensive items that can be shared, such as carpeting, television, couch/chairs/futon, microwave, stereo system, refrigerator, DVD player, phone and/or answering machine. Some dorms offer lofted beds, and this is something that the roommates will want to decide on as well.
Recommended List of Dorm Items
Regardless of which items are shared, there are a lot of items that teens will need or want to have, including:
- Bed items such as twin sheets (check with the college but most beds require extra-long sheets), blanket, comforter, pillows, mattress pad, alarm clock, bed reading light
- Bath items such as bath towels, washcloths, bathrobe, flip flops or shower shoes, a shower caddy to hold toiletries, toiletries, toothbrush, hairbrush and comb
- Closet items such as clothing, shoes, outerwear, pajamas, a laundry basket or bag, laundry detergent, clothes hangers, storage boxes
- Food items such as plastic dishes and eating utensils, dishtowels, dishsoap, sponge, snacks, drinks
- Personal items such as medications, laptop computer, printer, iPod or MP3 player, digital camera, address book, cell phone, PDA, calendar or planner, backpack or bookbag, health insurance card, school supplies, writing paper and stamps, tool kit
- Extras such as DVDs, CDs, books, religious items, wall decorations, poster putty (most dorms will now allow other methods of decorating walls), craft/hobby/sport items, full length mirror, padlock (to lock dresser drawer if desired), bulletin board, framed photos, storage crates, small furniture
By following the above list, both parents and teens can feel confident that he or she will be prepared for a great college experience!
Take the Stress Out of College Move In Day!
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