By Sarah Davis | Echo
Getting letters in college is already the most exciting thing. But getting a package in the mail is cause for a legitimate celebration.
When you send a care package to your beloved student, you send a care package to all of your beloved student's friends too. Friends gather from near and far as if the package was their own. With every reveal comes an exciting addition to dorm pantries and note collages.
So while we have you this weekend, dear parents, here are just a few ideas to help you create the most care-filled packages ever. Don't even worry about thanking us when you become the coolest parents on your student's floor. You're already welcome.
Glow Accessories:
It's 2 a.m. and nature calls. There are several options. Your student can turn on a light, waking up their roommate and creating tension. If your student is more adventurous, they may choose to keep their light off and stumble over everything on the way to the door. But dear parents, the possibilities do not end here. Amid the possibilities for this tricky scenario, no solution compares to glowing jewelry. A stylish and considerate alternative to traditional room exit strategies, this subtle neon light will dispel just enough darkness for safe passage to the bathroom. These are also good for concerts, outdoor games and casual daywear.
Ramen:
This goes without saying, but we're saying it anyway because it's that important. Ramen noodles are like the blue jeans in a care package closet. They're a staple. Want to eat your mini Oreos, but need to feel like you're eating a meal first? Ramen. In the mood for cooking, but don't have any real cooking skills? Ramen. Not hungry at all, but need a cheap activity? Ramen. Not only does it go with everything, but it also never goes out of style. So dear parents, make sure to toss these in. Nothing says you care like dehydrated noodles.
Tissues:
These will be necessary by the time the care package has been fully explored. Your student will definitely shed a few tears, stunned as they are by the love and thoughtfulness you've displayed. But these nifty little packets are also good for backpacks as cold season approaches. And when your student starts tearing up mid-class, thinking back on how great their care package was, they'll be prepared.
Mini Foods:
There are three reasons why a big bag of something miniature is a good idea. First, you get more. Second, you can eat more. Third, the more the better. So dear parents, whatever your college kid's favorite snack is, try to find the miniature version. With every "Aw, it's so cute!" your student will remember you fondly.
Sickness preventions:
These are less fun than other care package items, but your student will thank you when the time comes. Cough drops and cold medicine are essential parts of a thoughtful care package. Chances are, in immense eagerness to open the care package your student may also have cut himself or herself with scissors. Send some Band-Aids in preparation for that too. So whether your student is coughing, sniffling or bleeding, you'll never be far from his or her mind.
Bubbles:
Fight practical care package clichés with this. Cheap, small and entertaining, bubble juice makes for the perfect addition. "But no one plays with bubbles in college!" you protest. Maybe that's because no one sends them in care packages.
Notes:
A note from you, a sibling, Grandma, whoever. A handwritten note from anyone will do. In the college abyss of emails and information overload, anything handwritten is of great value. So tuck a few kind words in next to the Ramen. This is small, but might just be the biggest thing you send.
Other miscellaneous foods:
Chex Mix, mac and cheese, candy. You can never send too much, so just keep it coming. Sending your student's favorite things is what makes a care package special. The greatest gift you can give is the gift of remembrance; it's the little things that can remind your student of home in a tangible way. So yes, send Starbursts. Even write a cheesy message on them about how they're a star. They may roll their eyes at your jokes at home, but the jokes are by far more of a treat than the candy.
Socks:
Warm both hearts and feet by topping off your box with these. Fact: All care package items can be worthless if not enjoyed with cozy feet. Your student can put them on before sifting through the rest of the package. Toe socks, fuzzy socks, patterned, athletic, dress. We'll take 'em.
Dear parents, we're so thankful for the ways you take care of us, at home and away. Hopefully these ideas give you an idea of our necessities here at college. But please know that whatever you send us, we're going to be excited about it. 'Cause it's from you, and we just really love you.
