Parents should ease off kids moving to college

In transitioning their children to college life, some parents need to learn to be less overprotective and more willing to let their kid[s] live independently.

During the moving process, some parents view the ordeal as their last chance to protect their child before sending them off into the real world, reported the Minneapolis Star-Tribune. Parents can have a hard time when their kids go to college, because they will not be able to be as involved in their child's life and decision-making as they were in high school, St. Catherine University residence life director Heidi Anderson told the paper.

"That's a big transition for parents," said Anderson. "For 18 years, the parents have been in control. Suddenly it's their daughter who is in the driver's seat."

The paper advised against parents over-preparing their children by packing too many clothes or belongings, stressing that most dorm rooms are very small spaces that can't accommodate all of a person's things. Additionally, parents should find out if the school provides any items like a mini-fridge, and leave room decorating to their child, said the paper.

The act of simply packing for college can be a major concern. Renting a portable storage unit can also help simplify the moving process.

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