Caring for Your College Student: 3 Ways to Make Their Year Great

School is back in swing for students of all ages, and while the adjustment from lazy summer days to the structured schedule of school is hard no matter the grade, for those heading off into their first year of college, the change can be difficult to navigate. While each student has to learn the “ropes” with experience, there are a few things you can do to set them up for success. Here are 5 tips for making the first year of college easier for your child (and you) to manage:

• Check in often. While most college kids will roll their eyes and claim that they’re fine, having mom, dad, a grandparent, or other influential adult in their lives check in regularly through a quick phone call, FaceTime visit, or even text message is encouraging and makes their “life before school” not seem so far away.
• Give the gift of gift cards. Gift cards are a great way to show your college student that you’re thinking of them even when they aren’t home. Gift cards can be easily mailed and fit into a school postage box, and can help with things like gas purchases, needed items at local stores, or even a meal or two out when the cafeteria just isn’t sounding delicious. A quick note and a gift card can turn around their entire day!
• Offer “scaffolding” as they adjust to being an adult in the big world. Learning to be in control of their own schedule is a big leap for most kids, so offering some continued support from home is a big help as they learn and grow. Gentle reminders about upcoming appointments, helping them keep up with important deadlines for college paperwork (financial aid, medical forms, etc., NOT their actual school assignments) and continuing to assist them in scheduling things like vehicle inspections and needed maintenance, doctor’s visits, or trips to the dentist can be a big boost to their confidence as they learn to navigate the grown-up world.
• Another way to prepare your student for the first year away from home is making sure they know who to call when they have a medical need, and how to file with their insurance so YOU don’t end up getting shocking bills. Make sure your student has their insurance card with them, and stress the importance of keeping it on hand. Most schools have an on-campus clinic, and you’ll have already registered for coverage before the school year. Most schools require proof of private insurance, and if there isn’t one, they require that students purchase a plan through the university. If your student has private coverage, it might be a good idea to familiarize them with urgent care facilities close to campus, as well as the offices of any specialists they may need during the year (dentists, physical therapists, OBGYN, etc.). Your insurance provider can let you know which of these practices are within your network and covered by your policy.

Not sure what type of coverage is available for your student? Feel confident as you send them off into the big world. We are willing to meet with you and go over your various policies and what they cover for your whole family. The Winter Haven community trusts us to offer top-quality insurance advisement services. Locals trust us because we are local. Give us a call or stop by our downtown office!