College Survival Care Package- A Doctor/Moms Perspective on Essential Items
Has your child settled into their new school, dorm life with a roommate, and eating cafeteria food 24/7? It’s definitely a big transition for both parent and teenager. You may have initially spent hours decorating and assembling their room to provide comfort in their new surroundings, but what might have been overlooked is the fact that being in this new environment is akin to starting kindergarten when it comes to germs, illnesses and infections. I remember my son could not believe after seeming so healthy, how many coughs, sore throats, stomach bugs, and pains resurfaced when living in such close quarters with other teens that also weren’t always up to par with their hygiene? (right, how often is your child really washing hands, doing weekly laundry, getting enough sleep…) So as a mom and a pediatrician, here are some college survival items that your freshman, just may appreciate receiving from you in the mail.
College Survival Care Package – Checklist of What to Send
Hydration- Drinking lots of water is a must, so sending a reusable water bottle that they can fill and carry throughout the day is a must
Sore Throats – lollipops, sucking candies, lozenges (to help soothe scratchy throats) tea bags and a microwaveable mug.
Fever/ Pain - Ibuprofen or Acetaminophen, as the nearest pharmacy may be miles away, and often they just don’t want to get out of bed to head to the store
Hives/ Allergic skin reactions- antihistamine like Benedryl/Zyrtec/ Claritin/ Allegra
Skin Rashes - Cortisone cream, antibacterial ointment, and a good hydrating moisturizer to keep skin intact
Athletes Foot/ Fungal Infection- antifungal creams, shower shoes, clean socks and extra towels (in case they aren’t doing their laundry often enough)
Stomach Upset- antacids, ginger and chamomile
Coughs- a jar of honey, extra pillow to prop up head at night
Nail Care- keeping nails short and clean decrease spread infection- nail clipper/nail file
Disinfectant- Air fresheners/ Lysol cleaner, Laundry detergent pods, hand sanitizer
Healthy Snacks- nuts ,dried fruit, popcorn- for on the go or late night
Sleep/ Rest - ear buds to listen to music to help fall asleep, eye mask, lavender oil, magazines
Probiotic- boosting immune support and balancing digestive tract daily
First Aid supply- ace bandage, bandaids, cold pack/ice pack, thermometer,
These essential items will surely be appreciated by any child away on their own, especially for the first time. What else do you think would be helpful? Let me know in the comments.