Strategies for Staying Healthy in College

Okay, as parents we have managed to drag our daughter kicking and screaming into near adulthood. Most of us are on speaking terms again with our almost grown children and are ready to impart last words of wisdom as they move from the safety and cleanliness of home to living with a stranger in a dorm room. If your kids are anything like ours, they never figured out how the bathroom stayed mold free, the carpet fresh smelling and the reason why their bedding contained no bedbugs. As we packed our daughter's belongings into plastic totes, we included a separate tote with the following cleaning supplies:

A large container of Clorox wipes (alcohol based and kills flu germs)

A large wastebasket with lid

A large pack of paper towels

A large can of Tilex Mold & Mildew shower cleaner

A spray can of computer/keyboard cleaner

4 small bottles of instant hand sanitizer

4 boxes of tissues (she might need those that first couple of nights)

As we packed, we had a conversation about the importance of cleanliness in her living space at school and reminded her of the need to wash her hands frequently. She's heard that refrain for years; I've definitely imbedded that in her behavior. Each item in the tote was reviewed and suggestions given as to how to use the product, and the frequency of use, as well as the dangers of mixing certain products.

On the drive to college, we again discussed the changes she might expect. Nearly unlimited freedom can sometimes mean the downfall of the unwary teenager. We went over her class schedule and reminded her to plan her study times carefully. We discussed her eating habits and assured her that she wouldn't gain the dreaded freshman fifteen (pounds) if she stuck to her usual diet of protein and salads.

We talked about personal safety and about being aware of her surroundings and reminded her that as parents, we felt nothing good usually happens after midnight.

Her father and I reminded her that the pressure to use drugs, alcohol or cigarettes would still be there, just like in high school and she was now in control of her own destiny. We have always stressed that actions have consequences and she has followed our teaching for the most part. She is not a goody-two shoes and has an independent mind, but has a good head on her shoulders.

Lastly, we reminded our beloved daughter that we were only a cell-phone call away, ready and willing to give support. Several times during our discussions, our darling girl raised her eyebrows and stated that she already knew all this, but I know in my heart that she was listening.

As her father and I drove away from the campus, I looked back and there she was in the window with her new best friend/roommate waving and laughing. I was thinking I wished I had kept a box of those tissues.

Sources: personal experience
Clorox.com