It's a few weeks into the semester, and that means it's just about time for.. care packages! If you have amazing parents like me, you might have already received your first long-awaited box from the mailroom, but if not, here's an article you can send as a reminder of all the things you really want from Mom and Dad. And for parents, here's an easy list to help you fill every square inch of that box with things your college kid might even remember to thank you for.
1. Something sweet
This is an easy one, and usually one parents always get right. When it comes to a care package, we want something sweet. Throw in a few treats that will make us smile when we think we're totally out of food. You know, if we manage not to eat it all in the five minutes after we leave the mail room. Candy, cookies, baked goods - all acceptable. Bonus points if they're our homemade favorite!
2. Something for health
They wouldn't be moms if they weren't always looking out for us, right? Whether it's gummy vitamins, a container of protein powder, or the really nice Kleenexes to use instead of stealing dorm toilet paper when we get sick, do the Mom thing and keep us in the best health you can from a distance.
3. Something to get us through class
When those five hour Mondays start getting to us, we need something to keep us going. Throw in a cute bookmark or a page of 'A+!' stickers to remind us that you're rooting for us. College can be hard and everyone needs a little encouragement sometimes.
4. Something to remind us of home
In my last care package, my mom sent me the Colorado flag I accidentally left on my wall at home. Even if it's just a postcard with a local picture, a little piece of home can be a huge pick-me-up after a long day when the homesickness hits.
5. Something green
I'm not talking about kale, parents. The one thing most college kids are hurting for is cash, and a little bit goes a long way. We've learned how to ration our money on Top Ramen and bottom-shelf vodka, so no need to break the bank. Even the smallest donation is a chance to spring for real Mac n' Cheese instead of the generic brand, and that kind of luxury? That's priceless.
Care packages are one of the best bright spots in a long semester of studying and hard work. If you want to show your college student some love, don't forget these ideas to add to the next box you send off to College Street, USA.
