Whether your teen is heading off to school for the first time or your oldest is deep into his or her final semester, you may want to send a little something to show that you're thinking about them. Stumped on what to ship? It's best to opt for better-for-you items that he or she can get daily use out of. And don't forget those sentimental touches (like a sappy love note).
Following are 10 suggestions for preparing a healthy-living care package for your college student:
1. Air freshener
Sometimes college dorm rooms can smell like, well, dorm rooms. College apartments can also give off that same subtle scent. Help your son or daughter counteract any unpleasant odors with a spray or plug-in air freshener, such as Aura Cacia Electric Aromatherapy Air Freshener in Lavender. An added bonus: Many folks claim that lavender essential oil promotes rest and relaxation!
2. Family photo
Sure, your kiddo just left home and likely has some pics of the family in his or her new digs. But one more photo can’t hurt. Remember to include any four-legged family members he or she might be missing, too!
3. Restaurant gift card
Even if your son or daughter is on a school meal plan, it’s still nice to be able to dine out on occasion. Plus, the school cafeteria may not offer a particular lunch or dinner that your child is craving. He or she will really appreciate this thoughtful touch!
4. Herbal tea
Soothing herbal tea can help your start student unwind after a stressful exam or a particularly long day on campus. Sending a box is the next best thing to wrapping him or her in a warm hug. Check out Vitacost’s Heavenly Herbals Organic Tea Sampler in assorted flavors, which includes full-size samples of four exclusive blends.
5. Magazines
Yes, your child will likely have a lot of assigned reading in college. But light reading is a completely different story. Add the latest issue of Sports Illustrated, Glamour or Psychology Today magazine to the care package. It will help remind him or her to unwind and enjoy a little R&R.
6. Multivitamins
Early classes, late-night study sessions, weekend parties… College life can be taxing on the body. Taking a daily multivitamin can help ensure that your son or daughter is getting the nutrients needed to cope with the ups and downs of student life and maintain good health when illness starts to spread across campus.
7. Stain remover
You’ve taught your child the value of being prepared at all times, including laundry time. Send some stain-removal wipes for spot-treating stains on-the-go and/or stain remover for pre-treating stains before tossing clothes into the wash. After all, it would be a shame to waste all that money on their college wardrobe!
8. Sunscreen
They’re (almost) all grown up and hopefully they heed your advice to always apply natural sunscreen when heading outdoors (no matter what time of year it is). But there’s nothing wrong with sending a subtle reminder. Be sure to choose a broad spectrum sunscreen that blocks against both UVA and UVB rays, like Badger Sport Sunscreen SPF 35.
9. Sweet treats
It’s an unwritten rule that every care package must contain some sort of sweet treat. It’s your way of letting your son or daughter know that you are sending sweet thoughts. A crowd favorite (at least in my family) is Justin’s Organic Mini Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups!
10. Trail mix
With back-to-back classes, study groups and extra-curricular activities, it isn’t always possible for your college kid to adhere to a regular meal schedule. Packed with protein and other essential nutrients, trail mix is a smart snack that he or she can stuff in a backpack and nosh on when hunger sets in. Try Back To Nature’s Nantucket Blend Trail Mix, which contains a tasty blend of nuts and dried fruit.
Feeling inspired? Snag these items right now!
