Parents get degree in worrying as uni starts

June 19, 2012 - PRLog -- If you are the sort of caring parent who remembers their child’s first day at school then you are in for a shock when they start university.

Surely it was only a few years ago that you were checking the uniform list, buying new pencils and making sure they brushed their teeth before their first day in the classroom? And now there are only weeks before your teenager has to do it all again – without you!

The start of university is a scary time for parents but there are things you can do to ease your mind and make student life seem less daunting for your off spring too.

Start with what mums and dads do best, spend some money. Set up a bank account with limited emergency funds so your child has access to money other than that in their student loan account. Top up a supermarket student card so you know they can at least afford to eat, but make it clear they know to ignore the alcohol section.

Invest in a laptop computer and printer together with enough ink, paper and discs to get through the first term. The discs are to encourage the backing up of data, losing a whole term’s work is not a good start! Think about broadband provision.

Most universities supply a list of stationery so all you have to do as parent is ensure you buy everything in good time. If you haven’t received a list by September contact the university. Double check the book list and try to buy copies as early as possible. Second hand books/equipment are sometimes acceptable – check the university forums to see what’s on offer.

Check with university or landlord to find out what furniture and household items are provided at the accommodation. If possible your teenager should get in touch with his/her housemates to find out who’s bringing what. This is defiantly not a job for Mum; that looks a bit too controlling!

Someone has to bring the kitchen essentials – if the students are to live on beans they probably need a can opener. Check if a microwave is provided; the chances are gourmet three-course meals will be a rare thing.

Don’t forget sheets, pillow cases, duvets etc. An alarm clock is a good idea as you won’t be there to wake them up in time for lectures.


As the parent of a teenager you probably gave up offering advice on clothes years ago but a few hints about coats, warm sleepwear and sensible shoes wouldn’t go amiss.

As with the first day at school, label all personal belongings even if the accommodation won’t be shared.

The chances of the new student leaving home without a phone are remote but you should have it insured and check the charger is packed too.

Once everything is packed and checked parents get chance to really make themselves useful. A serious chat about drugs and excessive alcohol is the best thing you can do. Make it clear they can ask you about anything and you won’t judge.

As you don’t know what company your teenager will be keeping you’d be well advised to get them to visit one of the many health clinics offering advice and support on sexual health. There are clinics in Essex, Edinburgh and across the country where young people can stock up on condoms just in case.

As with every big step in life, starting university is an adventure. Most students look back on their years at university as among the best in their life. The secret is to be prepared, know Mum and Dad are there if needed and to then enjoy it.

Visit:http://www.essexhealth.co.uk/