Young Adults: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
18th Birthday Party
Celebrating your child's 18th birthday? Here are five birthday party ideas for celebrating your child's new adulthood.
Celebrating your child's 18th birthday? Here are five birthday party ideas for celebrating your child's new adulthood.
Statutory Rape
Love's all well and good, but if sex involves a minor under the age of consent, it's statutory rape. Here's a look at teens, sex and the law, for parents of teens and young adults.
Love's all well and good, but if sex involves a minor under the age of consent, it's statutory rape. Here's a look at teens, sex and the law, for parents of teens and young adults.
18-Year-Olds and the Law
Taxes, felonies and the selective service: 10 ways the law affects new 18-year-olds and their parents.
Taxes, felonies and the selective service: 10 ways the law affects new 18-year-olds and their parents.
21st Birthday
Tales of 21st birthday pub crawls and epic day-after hangovers abound. But here are five ideas for families who want to host a memorable 21st birthday celebration. A little celebratory booze, but no hangover.
Tales of 21st birthday pub crawls and epic day-after hangovers abound. But here are five ideas for families who want to host a memorable 21st birthday celebration. A little celebratory booze, but no hangover.
Facebook Danger
There's no denying the popularity of social networking sites, such as Facebook and MySpace, among teens and 20somethings. But parents of teens and young adults should know those sites pose dangers too - and the perils have nothing to do with Internet predators. Here are 5 Facebook dangers for college kids and older teens.
There's no denying the popularity of social networking sites, such as Facebook and MySpace, among teens and 20somethings. But parents of teens and young adults should know those sites pose dangers too - and the perils have nothing to do with Internet predators. Here are 5 Facebook dangers for college kids and older teens.
Thrifty Gifts for College Kids
Looking for the perfect gift for your college kid? Here's the lowdown on the top teen pleasers that cost $30 or less.
Looking for the perfect gift for your college kid? Here's the lowdown on the top teen pleasers that cost $30 or less.
Selective Service FAQs
When your teen turns 18, he must register for the Selective Service. Here are frequently asked questions about the Selective Service, the draft and your 18-year-old - including the role it plays in college scholarships and FAFSA.
When your teen turns 18, he must register for the Selective Service. Here are frequently asked questions about the Selective Service, the draft and your 18-year-old - including the role it plays in college scholarships and FAFSA.
Sobering Statistics
Despite alcohol awareness programs, alcohol use continues to be a problem on college campuses. Here's the lowdown on the sobering statistics on college drinking.
Despite alcohol awareness programs, alcohol use continues to be a problem on college campuses. Here's the lowdown on the sobering statistics on college drinking.
Holiday Gifts \$30-\$150
Looking for great holiday gifts to delight and pamper your college kid or 20something? Already got the iPod? Here's a round-up of holiday gift guide ideas in the $30-$150 range.
Looking for great holiday gifts to delight and pamper your college kid or 20something? Already got the iPod? Here's a round-up of holiday gift guide ideas in the $30-$150 range.
Care Package 101
Care Package Ideas: Everything you need to know to pack the perfect care package - baking, packing and mailing for your college student or loved one far from home.
Care Package Ideas: Everything you need to know to pack the perfect care package - baking, packing and mailing for your college student or loved one far from home.
Gifts for Twilight Fans
Got a major "Twilight" fan? Whether they're Edward fans or members of Team Jacob, most female teens and 20somethings already have Stephenie Meyer's vampire books. So here are other gift ideas for the Twilight fan.
Got a major "Twilight" fan? Whether they're Edward fans or members of Team Jacob, most female teens and 20somethings already have Stephenie Meyer's vampire books. So here are other gift ideas for the Twilight fan.
Thanksgiving Break Survival
That first trip home for a college student is always a rocky one. Here are six tips for parents of college students on not just surviving Thanksgiving or Fall break, but making it a wonderful family experience.
That first trip home for a college student is always a rocky one. Here are six tips for parents of college students on not just surviving Thanksgiving or Fall break, but making it a wonderful family experience.
Turning 18
Turning 18 - Turning 18 is a big deal, not just emotionally but legally. Here's everything parents need to know when their child turns 18, from celebrations to the legal implications for that new 18-year-old.
Turning 18 - Turning 18 is a big deal, not just emotionally but legally. Here's everything parents need to know when their child turns 18, from celebrations to the legal implications for that new 18-year-old.
21st Birthday Gifts
A generation or two ago, a 21st birthday was celebrated with a fine vintage from the year the birthday boy (or girl) was born - an expensive and tricky proposition that was easier said than done. Here are five other options.
A generation or two ago, a 21st birthday was celebrated with a fine vintage from the year the birthday boy (or girl) was born - an expensive and tricky proposition that was easier said than done. Here are five other options.
GED Defined
Not every teen is college bound, and some don't even finish high school. They drop out or opt instead for a GED, or General Educational Development, certificate instead of the classic high school diploma.
Not every teen is college bound, and some don't even finish high school. They drop out or opt instead for a GED, or General Educational Development, certificate instead of the classic high school diploma.
Care Package
Perfect care packages bring more than nourishment to college kids far from home. They bring cookies, comfort and love - and more than a dash of whimsy. If you're a parent of a college student, here's what to pack.
Perfect care packages bring more than nourishment to college kids far from home. They bring cookies, comfort and love - and more than a dash of whimsy. If you're a parent of a college student, here's what to pack.
Great Gifts for College Kids & Young Adults (\$30-\$150)
Looking for great gifts for college kids and 20-somethings?
Looking for great gifts for college kids and 20-somethings?
Parents, 18s and the Law
Is your child turning 18? There are legal issues to consider. Here are five surprising ways the law affects parents of new 18-year-olds.
Is your child turning 18? There are legal issues to consider. Here are five surprising ways the law affects parents of new 18-year-olds.
College Graduation Gifts
College Graduation Gifts: Wondering what to get the new graduate in your life? Here's a round up of great graduation gifts for the new college grad.
College Graduation Gifts: Wondering what to get the new graduate in your life? Here's a round up of great graduation gifts for the new college grad.
Stocking Stuffers
Stocking stuffers for college-aged kids and young adults
Stocking stuffers for college-aged kids and young adults
Performanceresume
A sample performance resume for prospective music or theater arts majors applying to colleges or conservatories.
A sample performance resume for prospective music or theater arts majors applying to colleges or conservatories.
Moving Home 101
When grown children move home, it can be an upheaval for the entire family. Here's a list of critical issues to think about when your adult child - a member of the ever increasing boomerang generation - moves home.
When grown children move home, it can be an upheaval for the entire family. Here's a list of critical issues to think about when your adult child - a member of the ever increasing boomerang generation - moves home.
101 Things to Do in College
Sure, going to class is important, but here are 101 other things to do in college, following such traditions as hugging the mascot, playing inner-tube water polo and more. Here's a round-up of college traditions every kid should do at least once.
Sure, going to class is important, but here are 101 other things to do in college, following such traditions as hugging the mascot, playing inner-tube water polo and more. Here's a round-up of college traditions every kid should do at least once.
Sample Rental Contract
When grown children move back home with their parents, it's best for those boomerang 20-somethings to draw up a rental contract that covers rent, chores and utilities. Here's a sample rental contract for adult children who move home.
When grown children move back home with their parents, it's best for those boomerang 20-somethings to draw up a rental contract that covers rent, chores and utilities. Here's a sample rental contract for adult children who move home.
Great Gifts for College Kids & Young Adults (Under \$30)
Looking for great gifts for teens and college kids?
Looking for great gifts for teens and college kids?
10 Cool Stocking Stuffers for Teens & College Kids
Gift Guides: Looking for great gifts for your teen, 20something or college kid?
Gift Guides: Looking for great gifts for your teen, 20something or college kid?
5 Great Vacations for Teens
Teens and 20somethings are adventuresome travel companions, who enjoy a mix of outdoor adventure, cultural immersion, fine dining and cool shopping. Here, to get you started, are five very different vacation destinations for families traveling with teens and young adults.
Teens and 20somethings are adventuresome travel companions, who enjoy a mix of outdoor adventure, cultural immersion, fine dining and cool shopping. Here, to get you started, are five very different vacation destinations for families traveling with teens and young adults.
Harry Potter Gifts
Gift Ideas for Harry Potter Fans: Most older teens and college kids grew up on J.K. Rowling's famous series. They've read all the books - some even tote them off to college as "comfort books" - and seen all the movies. If you're looking for gift ideas for your Harry Potter fan, here are a few more Hogwarts-related items they may enjoy.
Gift Ideas for Harry Potter Fans: Most older teens and college kids grew up on J.K. Rowling's famous series. They've read all the books - some even tote them off to college as "comfort books" - and seen all the movies. If you're looking for gift ideas for your Harry Potter fan, here are a few more Hogwarts-related items they may enjoy.
Graduation Party
Planning a graduation party or senior recital reception? Here are some ideas for a graduation celebration that's both stylish and special.
Planning a graduation party or senior recital reception? Here are some ideas for a graduation celebration that's both stylish and special.
Gifts for Harry Potter Fans
Looking for great gifts for college kids and teens?
Looking for great gifts for college kids and teens?
Finals Week Packages
Exam week stress calls for a different sort of care package for your stressed out college students - something heavier on the protein and health quotient, and lighter on the sugar factor. Here are some suggestions for exam week care packages.
Exam week stress calls for a different sort of care package for your stressed out college students - something heavier on the protein and health quotient, and lighter on the sugar factor. Here are some suggestions for exam week care packages.
Off to College
Outfitting the dorm room.
Outfitting the dorm room.
Common Application
The Common Application: A new college application season starts this fall, but here's a sneak peek at the 2009-10 Common Application, its essay topics and changes from last year.
The Common Application: A new college application season starts this fall, but here's a sneak peek at the 2009-10 Common Application, its essay topics and changes from last year.
Turkey Drop
College Breakups: Despite the large number of college kids who try to maintain long-distance relationships, so many freshman couples break up over Thanksgiving, college administrators have given the phenomenon a name. They call it the Turkey Drop.
College Breakups: Despite the large number of college kids who try to maintain long-distance relationships, so many freshman couples break up over Thanksgiving, college administrators have given the phenomenon a name. They call it the Turkey Drop.
Great Board Games
Looking for great gifts for college kids and teens?
Looking for great gifts for college kids and teens?
Conservatory 101
Everything you ever wanted to know about applying to a college or a conservatory as a music, drama, dance or arts major.
Everything you ever wanted to know about applying to a college or a conservatory as a music, drama, dance or arts major.
Gifts for Twilight Fans
Looking for great gifts for teens and college kids?
Looking for great gifts for teens and college kids?
Best Board Games
Parcheesi may have entertained our grandparents, but board games are enjoying an enormous resurgence, thanks to great board games such as the simple, but hilarious Apples to Apples and fabulously bizarre Quelf. Here's a list of great board games guaranteed to please older teens, college kids and 20somethings, and wow the dorm crowd.
Parcheesi may have entertained our grandparents, but board games are enjoying an enormous resurgence, thanks to great board games such as the simple, but hilarious Apples to Apples and fabulously bizarre Quelf. Here's a list of great board games guaranteed to please older teens, college kids and 20somethings, and wow the dorm crowd.
College Tour Questions
Going on a college visit? Maximize your time on campus by asking the right questions - the ones that can't be answered by the campus brochure, web site or college tour guide's script. Here are 17 real questions to ask on a college visit.
Going on a college visit? Maximize your time on campus by asking the right questions - the ones that can't be answered by the campus brochure, web site or college tour guide's script. Here are 17 real questions to ask on a college visit.
Assembling a Portfolio
While most major art schools want strong academic candidates for their college-level programs, it's the artist's portfolio that's the deciding factor. Here are tips on assembling an art portfolio for college.
While most major art schools want strong academic candidates for their college-level programs, it's the artist's portfolio that's the deciding factor. Here are tips on assembling an art portfolio for college.
Zombies
There's no denying it - zombies are hot these days. If your teen, college kid or 20something is a major zombie fan, you'll want to browse this list of zombie gift ideas
There's no denying it - zombies are hot these days. If your teen, college kid or 20something is a major zombie fan, you'll want to browse this list of zombie gift ideas
Great DVDs & Blu-Rays for Teens
Looking for great gifts for teens, 20somethings and college kids?
Looking for great gifts for teens, 20somethings and college kids?
21st Birthday Gifts
Looking for great gifts for that new 21-year-old?
Looking for great gifts for that new 21-year-old?
5 Pre-Holiday Tips
Thanksgiving break is almost upon us, but here are five things to do right now that will help your family - and your college kids' - holiday season get off to a good start.
Thanksgiving break is almost upon us, but here are five things to do right now that will help your family - and your college kids' - holiday season get off to a good start.
Great High School Graduation Gifts
Gift Guides: Looking for great gifts for your teen, 20something or college kid?
Gift Guides: Looking for great gifts for your teen, 20something or college kid?
Emotions of Moving Home
Parent emotions can go haywire when their grown kids move back home. Young adults may move home to recover from student loan debt or a personal crisis, but parents can't help but wonder if they did something wrong.
Parent emotions can go haywire when their grown kids move back home. Young adults may move home to recover from student loan debt or a personal crisis, but parents can't help but wonder if they did something wrong.
DVD Gift Guide
Ancient Romans, blood-thirsty vampires and a seriously dysfunctional bar staff in sunny Philadelphia? They're all part of our DVD-centric gift guide for college kids and 20somethings.
Ancient Romans, blood-thirsty vampires and a seriously dysfunctional bar staff in sunny Philadelphia? They're all part of our DVD-centric gift guide for college kids and 20somethings.
College Kids, Sleep and GPA
Psychology studies say college kids who get enough sleep have higher GPAs than those who pull all-nighters. Got a night owl? Or a sleep deprived college student? Here are tips for parents of teens and young adults on turning college kids into healthier morning people... who get better grades.
Psychology studies say college kids who get enough sleep have higher GPAs than those who pull all-nighters. Got a night owl? Or a sleep deprived college student? Here are tips for parents of teens and young adults on turning college kids into healthier morning people... who get better grades.
6 Great College Graduation Gifts
Gift Guides: Looking for great gifts for your teen, 20something or college kid?
Gift Guides: Looking for great gifts for your teen, 20something or college kid?
College Orientation
These days, students aren't the only ones to go to college orientation. Parents and younger sibs do too. Here's what to expect during college orientation, including pros and cons on the timing.
These days, students aren't the only ones to go to college orientation. Parents and younger sibs do too. Here's what to expect during college orientation, including pros and cons on the timing.
DIY Fleece Blanket
Help your college kid turn his dorm room into a cozy nest by whipping up this simple, fringed, fleece blanket. A fleece blanket will keep him warm and cozy - and remind him of you. And it's a great project for younger siblings to make too.
Help your college kid turn his dorm room into a cozy nest by whipping up this simple, fringed, fleece blanket. A fleece blanket will keep him warm and cozy - and remind him of you. And it's a great project for younger siblings to make too.
Graduation Video
A graduation video that traces your child's life from infancy to teen years is a wonderful gift. Here's how to make a graduation video or slide show.
A graduation video that traces your child's life from infancy to teen years is a wonderful gift. Here's how to make a graduation video or slide show.
Boomerang Kids and Rent
When grown children move back home as part of the boomerang generation, there are always financial reasons behind the return. The big question is, should parents charge boomerang kids rent? And if so, how much?
When grown children move back home as part of the boomerang generation, there are always financial reasons behind the return. The big question is, should parents charge boomerang kids rent? And if so, how much?
DIY Dorm Gifts
Looking for great college kid gifts?
Looking for great college kid gifts?
Birthday Cakes & Dorms
It's tough being away from your kids on their birthdays, even when the kid in question is a grown-up college student. But you can still help the birthday boy or girl celebrate in the dorms with a birthday cake delivery - or even a mascot visit.
It's tough being away from your kids on their birthdays, even when the kid in question is a grown-up college student. But you can still help the birthday boy or girl celebrate in the dorms with a birthday cake delivery - or even a mascot visit.
Art Major 101
You may think you know everything there is to know about college applications, but applying as an art major is a whole different ballgame. Here's a practical how-to guide for parents of college-age children and teens to the unique timelines and portfolio requirements of a prospective art major.
You may think you know everything there is to know about college applications, but applying as an art major is a whole different ballgame. Here's a practical how-to guide for parents of college-age children and teens to the unique timelines and portfolio requirements of a prospective art major.
House Rules and Rent
What do you do when junior moves home? Tips for parents to smooth the transition when grown kids - members of the "Boomerang Generation" - move back home
What do you do when junior moves home? Tips for parents to smooth the transition when grown kids - members of the "Boomerang Generation" - move back home
Gifts for Zombie Fans
Looking for great gifts for your favorite teen or college kid?
Looking for great gifts for your favorite teen or college kid?
Pumpkin Chocolate-Chip Bread
Pumpkin bread is already pretty fabulous, but take down the sugar and add some chocolate chips and this recipe reaches new teen-pleasing heights. And its moistness makes it a natural for college care packages.
Pumpkin bread is already pretty fabulous, but take down the sugar and add some chocolate chips and this recipe reaches new teen-pleasing heights. And its moistness makes it a natural for college care packages.
Parties, Parents and Law
When teen parties spiral out of control, the liability for parents can be severe. A look at the financial, civil and criminal stakes for parents when underage kids drink in their home.
When teen parties spiral out of control, the liability for parents can be severe. A look at the financial, civil and criminal stakes for parents when underage kids drink in their home.
Dorm Shopping
Dorm Shopping: When it comes to outfitting the college dorm, you can ignore those glossy shelter magazines with their fabulous dorm layouts. Here's the real scoop on dorm shopping.
Dorm Shopping: When it comes to outfitting the college dorm, you can ignore those glossy shelter magazines with their fabulous dorm layouts. Here's the real scoop on dorm shopping.
Dorm Crafts
Dorm Room Decorating Ideas - Dorm rooms can be spartan affairs, so add a few of these cool, inexpensive craft ideas to your college kid's dorm decorating plans.
Dorm Room Decorating Ideas - Dorm rooms can be spartan affairs, so add a few of these cool, inexpensive craft ideas to your college kid's dorm decorating plans.
Winter Break Survival
When college kids head home for the long winter break, it may not be the four weeks of unfettered bliss parents anticipate. Tips on surviving college kids' long winter break.
When college kids head home for the long winter break, it may not be the four weeks of unfettered bliss parents anticipate. Tips on surviving college kids' long winter break.
College vs Conservatories
If your child is apply to college as a theater or music major, these tips will help him choose between conservatories and classic college.
If your child is apply to college as a theater or music major, these tips will help him choose between conservatories and classic college.
New Year's Party
Whether it's a New Year's Party, an open house brunch or college kid reunion, the holidays and winter break are the perfect time for a family party.
Whether it's a New Year's Party, an open house brunch or college kid reunion, the holidays and winter break are the perfect time for a family party.
Staying Close and Letting Go
Now that your kids are grown, how does an empty nest parent restructure the relationship so you’re neither too involved, nor so hands-off there isn’t much of a relationship there at all? How do you stay close while letting go?
Now that your kids are grown, how does an empty nest parent restructure the relationship so you’re neither too involved, nor so hands-off there isn’t much of a relationship there at all? How do you stay close while letting go?
College Application Costs
You thought college tuition was bad? You can drop thousands of dollars just applying to get into school. Here's a heads-up on the high cost of the college application process.
You thought college tuition was bad? You can drop thousands of dollars just applying to get into school. Here's a heads-up on the high cost of the college application process.
Arts Performance Resumes
Tips to help college-bound theater and music majors build impressive university and conservatory admissions applications.
Tips to help college-bound theater and music majors build impressive university and conservatory admissions applications.
Other College Expenses
Tuition, room and board are certainly the major college expenses, but additional expenses - textbooks, lab fees, practice room charges, social tabs and cell phones - can add another $2,000 or more to the college expenses tab.
Tuition, room and board are certainly the major college expenses, but additional expenses - textbooks, lab fees, practice room charges, social tabs and cell phones - can add another $2,000 or more to the college expenses tab.
College Kids and Stress
A Q&A with Campus Calm founder Maria Pascucci, who talks about teens, college stress and the challenges of parenting college students.
A Q&A with Campus Calm founder Maria Pascucci, who talks about teens, college stress and the challenges of parenting college students.
De-Stress List
Stressed out over school, exams or life in general? These activities are guaranteed to de-stress any teen, college student or young adult - and they work well for grown-ups too.
Stressed out over school, exams or life in general? These activities are guaranteed to de-stress any teen, college student or young adult - and they work well for grown-ups too.
Quarterlife
Some young adults are lucky enough to know what they want to do from an early age. For the rest, the adjustment to the real world can be a harsh one. That's why it's been dubbed the Quarter Life Crisis. Here are some tips to help parents of young adults and 20-somethings understand what's going on.
Some young adults are lucky enough to know what they want to do from an early age. For the rest, the adjustment to the real world can be a harsh one. That's why it's been dubbed the Quarter Life Crisis. Here are some tips to help parents of young adults and 20-somethings understand what's going on.
Audition Tips
Auditions are a nail-biting part of the process of applying to music schools or conservatories. Here are tips on surviving music auditions from experts at Juilliard and other conservatories.
Auditions are a nail-biting part of the process of applying to music schools or conservatories. Here are tips on surviving music auditions from experts at Juilliard and other conservatories.
Spring Break Safety
Spring break can be a time to unwind and have fun, but it can also pose significant dangers for unwary college kids - or spring breakers too focused on having fun to act sensibly. Here's a guide to help parents discuss spring break safety with their college kids.
Spring break can be a time to unwind and have fun, but it can also pose significant dangers for unwary college kids - or spring breakers too focused on having fun to act sensibly. Here's a guide to help parents discuss spring break safety with their college kids.
College vs. Art School
When it comes to higher education, art majors have three choices. They can attend an art institute, try a large university with a visual arts department - or opt for that happy medium, a university with a strong art school. Here's how to choose...
When it comes to higher education, art majors have three choices. They can attend an art institute, try a large university with a visual arts department - or opt for that happy medium, a university with a strong art school. Here's how to choose...
Great Books for College Kids
Great books, brimming with college advice and roommate tips, for families with college-bound kids and young adults.
Great books, brimming with college advice and roommate tips, for families with college-bound kids and young adults.
FAFSA
Worried about college expenses and financial aid? Filling out the FAFSA, the free application for federal student aid, is the critical first step to access student loans and scholarships.
Worried about college expenses and financial aid? Filling out the FAFSA, the free application for federal student aid, is the critical first step to access student loans and scholarships.
Boomerang Quiz
Wondering if your grown child should move back home? Take this parent quiz to decide if you're ready.
Wondering if your grown child should move back home? Take this parent quiz to decide if you're ready.
Molestation defined
Molestation: What is child molestation?
Molestation: What is child molestation?
Pencil Cup
Photo crafts are a great way to bring family and friends' images into a dorm room. This film strip-bedecked pencil cup is a great photo craft project.
Photo crafts are a great way to bring family and friends' images into a dorm room. This film strip-bedecked pencil cup is a great photo craft project.
Facebook Etiquette
Teens often recoil when their parents wander onto Facebook. Follow these five simple etiquette tips to keep your teen and college kids from "unfriending" you on Facebook.
Teens often recoil when their parents wander onto Facebook. Follow these five simple etiquette tips to keep your teen and college kids from "unfriending" you on Facebook.
Winter Pastimes
There's a let down once the holidays are over, particularly when your college kid still has weeks of winter break left. So here's advice for parents of college students and teens - five great ways to keep you and your grown kids entertained over the long winter break.
There's a let down once the holidays are over, particularly when your college kid still has weeks of winter break left. So here's advice for parents of college students and teens - five great ways to keep you and your grown kids entertained over the long winter break.
Art Portfolio Day
Art school admissions is a competitive business, one that requires not just an academic application but an art portfolio as well. In addition to college fairs, be sure your prospective art major and college applicant checks out National Portfolio Day, a free public event that invites would-be art school applicants to meet with college representatives and have their portfolios evaluated.
Art school admissions is a competitive business, one that requires not just an academic application but an art portfolio as well. In addition to college fairs, be sure your prospective art major and college applicant checks out National Portfolio Day, a free public event that invites would-be art school applicants to meet with college representatives and have their portfolios evaluated.
Loaded Questions
Loaded Questions is another great dorm board game and a popular item on teens' favorite board games lists.
Loaded Questions is another great dorm board game and a popular item on teens' favorite board games lists.
Swine Flu at College
The H1N1 virus - swine flu - first appeared on college campuses last spring. Now campus officials are bracing themselves for a major outbreak of swine flu at college.
The H1N1 virus - swine flu - first appeared on college campuses last spring. Now campus officials are bracing themselves for a major outbreak of swine flu at college.
Photo Thumbtacks
Here's how to make photo thumbtacks and magnets for the dorm.
Here's how to make photo thumbtacks and magnets for the dorm.
Host a Cookie Exchange
Cookie exchanges can be a delightful - and easy - way to end up with an assortment of beautiful treats. But make it a care package cookie exchange and parents of college students are not just getting pretty sweets, you're socializing with friends going through the same emotional, empty nest leave-taking. And the care package that eventually arrives on campus tells your college kid that it's not just you who misses him, it's the whole neighborhood.
Cookie exchanges can be a delightful - and easy - way to end up with an assortment of beautiful treats. But make it a care package cookie exchange and parents of college students are not just getting pretty sweets, you're socializing with friends going through the same emotional, empty nest leave-taking. And the care package that eventually arrives on campus tells your college kid that it's not just you who misses him, it's the whole neighborhood.
Collegevisit
College visit - Getting the most out of a college visit means more than simply taking the college tour.
College visit - Getting the most out of a college visit means more than simply taking the college tour.
Save Money on Textbooks
At least parents can anticipate college tuition. The $940 your child spends on college textbooks per year usually comes as a rude shock. Here are five ways parents can save money on college textbooks.
At least parents can anticipate college tuition. The $940 your child spends on college textbooks per year usually comes as a rude shock. Here are five ways parents can save money on college textbooks.
Study Abroad Statistics
Where do students go when they study abroad? Nearly a quarter of U.S. kids who do study abroad programs head for English-speaking countries.
Where do students go when they study abroad? Nearly a quarter of U.S. kids who do study abroad programs head for English-speaking countries.
5 Books on Parenting Grown-Ups
5 great parenting advice books for parents of college kids and young adults.
5 great parenting advice books for parents of college kids and young adults.
College Countdown
Countdown to College - The applications are done, the fat envelopes have arrived and the big decision has been made. Now all that’s left is the final countdown to college, paperwork, dorm shopping, roommates and all.
Countdown to College - The applications are done, the fat envelopes have arrived and the big decision has been made. Now all that’s left is the final countdown to college, paperwork, dorm shopping, roommates and all.
Health Insurance
Parents are wise to worry when their grown children age out of family health benefits. Here are three ways for parents of young adults to get medical coverage for their uninsured young adults and not-yet-employed 20-somethings, so a case of appendicitis or a trip to the emergency room doesn't send them to the poorhouse.
Parents are wise to worry when their grown children age out of family health benefits. Here are three ways for parents of young adults to get medical coverage for their uninsured young adults and not-yet-employed 20-somethings, so a case of appendicitis or a trip to the emergency room doesn't send them to the poorhouse.
College Kids, Illness & Injury
When College Kids Get Sick: The combination of stress, sleep deprivation and dorm life means college kids get sick a lot. Prepare your child for the inevitable with these three basic steps.
When College Kids Get Sick: The combination of stress, sleep deprivation and dorm life means college kids get sick a lot. Prepare your child for the inevitable with these three basic steps.
College Kids at Home
Going to college while living at home? If your child is headed for a junior college or commuter school, chances are he'll be living at home during at least the first two years of his college career. Here are tips on making this dorm alternative work for your family.
Going to college while living at home? If your child is headed for a junior college or commuter school, chances are he'll be living at home during at least the first two years of his college career. Here are tips on making this dorm alternative work for your family.
Breaking an Early Decision
In college admissions, early decision is a binding agreement - if accepted, your child will enroll. Is it possible to break that contract?
In college admissions, early decision is a binding agreement - if accepted, your child will enroll. Is it possible to break that contract?
FAFSA 101
Looking for college financial aid? The Free Application for Federal Student Aid - the FAFSA - is your family's ticket to college financial aid and scholarships. Here's a parent guide to finding those loans and grants, navigating the college scholarship paperwork and avoiding the scams.
Looking for college financial aid? The Free Application for Federal Student Aid - the FAFSA - is your family's ticket to college financial aid and scholarships. Here's a parent guide to finding those loans and grants, navigating the college scholarship paperwork and avoiding the scams.
Dorm Life
Dorm Life: From roommates to meal plans, everything a parent needs to know about dorm life.
Dorm Life: From roommates to meal plans, everything a parent needs to know about dorm life.
DIY College Admissions 1
Families spend thousands on college admissions counselors to help them choose the best college, but you can save considerable cash by doing it yourself. Here's college admissions advice for parents of teens and college applicants on how to generate a great list of colleges that are good fits for your child.
Families spend thousands on college admissions counselors to help them choose the best college, but you can save considerable cash by doing it yourself. Here's college admissions advice for parents of teens and college applicants on how to generate a great list of colleges that are good fits for your child.
Graduation Gifts
Graduation Gifts: Wondering what to get the new high school graduate in your life? Here's a round up of great graduation gifts for the college-bound senior.
Graduation Gifts: Wondering what to get the new high school graduate in your life? Here's a round up of great graduation gifts for the college-bound senior.
Mono in College
Mono in College: When college kids get mono, it can derail studies and make life miserable for a few weeks or a few months. Here's the scoop on mono.
Mono in College: When college kids get mono, it can derail studies and make life miserable for a few weeks or a few months. Here's the scoop on mono.
cookbooks
There's only so much ramen a human can eat. At some point, even a college kid or 20something has to learn to cook something. For parents of young adults and college students, here's a round-up of learn-to-cook cookbooks to help.
There's only so much ramen a human can eat. At some point, even a college kid or 20something has to learn to cook something. For parents of young adults and college students, here's a round-up of learn-to-cook cookbooks to help.
Cutting College Tour Costs
College tuition is painful enough, but shelling out thousands just to tour prospective campuses? Ouch. Here are five ways to trim costs when you're scouting college campuses.
College tuition is painful enough, but shelling out thousands just to tour prospective campuses? Ouch. Here are five ways to trim costs when you're scouting college campuses.
Family Vacations for Teens
Just because the kids are grown doesn't mean you have to give up family vacations. In fact, cash-strapped teens and 20somethings may find family trips more alluring than ever. Here's vacation advice for parents of young adults.
Just because the kids are grown doesn't mean you have to give up family vacations. In fact, cash-strapped teens and 20somethings may find family trips more alluring than ever. Here's vacation advice for parents of young adults.
5 Tips on the FAFSA
Grappling with college financial aid paperwork? These five FAFSA tips should help.
Grappling with college financial aid paperwork? These five FAFSA tips should help.
Quelf
Quelf, a zany board game with all the appeal of a trivia contest, charades match and 12 other bizarrely imaginative games, is a winner among teens and 20somethings, as well as a favorite dorm board game.
Quelf, a zany board game with all the appeal of a trivia contest, charades match and 12 other bizarrely imaginative games, is a winner among teens and 20somethings, as well as a favorite dorm board game.
DIY Laundry Bag
Packing up your kid for the big move to college? Send her off in style with this DIY Dorm Laundry Bag - or at least ready to hit the dorm laundromat without leaving a trail of dirty laundry.
Packing up your kid for the big move to college? Send her off in style with this DIY Dorm Laundry Bag - or at least ready to hit the dorm laundromat without leaving a trail of dirty laundry.
Choosing a dorm plan
Choosing an appropriate dorm meal plan for your college student can save you hundreds of dollars on college dorm costs.
Choosing an appropriate dorm meal plan for your college student can save you hundreds of dollars on college dorm costs.
College Admissions Process
Despite the hysteria surrounding college admissions and the beastly amount of paperwork, the process itself is fairly straight forward. Here's a basic outline of how the college admissions process works.
Despite the hysteria surrounding college admissions and the beastly amount of paperwork, the process itself is fairly straight forward. Here's a basic outline of how the college admissions process works.
Dorm Move Out Day
Two semesters is more than enough time to pack all sorts of debris into one's college dorm room. Then comes moving day. Here are tips to help smooth dorm move out day for college students and their families.
Two semesters is more than enough time to pack all sorts of debris into one's college dorm room. Then comes moving day. Here are tips to help smooth dorm move out day for college students and their families.
College Admissions
College Admissions 101: A step-by-step guide for families navigating the college admissions process.
College Admissions 101: A step-by-step guide for families navigating the college admissions process.
Stress
As parents, we’re all too familiar with our own stress, but our kids suffer from it too, and stress rates among teens and young adults have spiked in recent years. Here are 6 tips to help your college kid cope with stress.
As parents, we’re all too familiar with our own stress, but our kids suffer from it too, and stress rates among teens and young adults have spiked in recent years. Here are 6 tips to help your college kid cope with stress.
Memory Board
Graduation Gifts - Looking for a good way to commemorate graduation? A memory board or photo collage makes a great graduation gift and even some heartwarming dorm decor.
Graduation Gifts - Looking for a good way to commemorate graduation? A memory board or photo collage makes a great graduation gift and even some heartwarming dorm decor.
College Checklists
Ignore the glossy magazine spreads. Here's what your child actually needs to outfit his dorm room, from XL fitted sheets to flash drive, all spelled out in this easy-to-download dorm shopping list.
Ignore the glossy magazine spreads. Here's what your child actually needs to outfit his dorm room, from XL fitted sheets to flash drive, all spelled out in this easy-to-download dorm shopping list.
4 Crucial Spring Break Tips
Got a college kid going on spring break? Here are five tips on spring break safety to share with your child.
Got a college kid going on spring break? Here are five tips on spring break safety to share with your child.
6 College Stress Warnings
Every college student suffers a certain amount of stress. How does a parent know when to worry? If you're parenting a college student, here are six warning signs that your child's college stress may be a mental health concern.
Every college student suffers a certain amount of stress. How does a parent know when to worry? If you're parenting a college student, here are six warning signs that your child's college stress may be a mental health concern.
Empty Nest Blues
Every parent of college students or young adults eventually goes through empty nest syndrome. Here are 7 ways to cope with the empty nest blues.
Every parent of college students or young adults eventually goes through empty nest syndrome. Here are 7 ways to cope with the empty nest blues.
Cars at College
Wondering if your child should bring a car to college? Here are five issues to consider when mulling the wisdom of a car at college.
Wondering if your child should bring a car to college? Here are five issues to consider when mulling the wisdom of a car at college.
College, Alcohol, Intervention
It's tough to tell a friend he's drinking too much, but when Margarita Monday goes 24/7, it's time to intervene, even if the setting is a college drinking dorm.
It's tough to tell a friend he's drinking too much, but when Margarita Monday goes 24/7, it's time to intervene, even if the setting is a college drinking dorm.
FAFSA Changes
The FAFSA - the Free Application for Federal Student Aid - is about to become significantly easier. Here's the lowdown on changes to the FAFSA.
The FAFSA - the Free Application for Federal Student Aid - is about to become significantly easier. Here's the lowdown on changes to the FAFSA.
Care Package Mailing Tips
The best college care packages include baked goods, but finding recipes that are sturdy enough to travel - and survive the lag time in a college mail room - can be a challenge. Here are tips for parents of young adults on packing and mailing college care packages.
The best college care packages include baked goods, but finding recipes that are sturdy enough to travel - and survive the lag time in a college mail room - can be a challenge. Here are tips for parents of young adults on packing and mailing college care packages.
Facebook, Skype and More
Facebook and College: Between Facebook, web cams and Skype, not there are loads of ways for parents of young adults to stay in touch with their college student or now-grown kid.
Facebook and College: Between Facebook, web cams and Skype, not there are loads of ways for parents of young adults to stay in touch with their college student or now-grown kid.
Graduation Party Food
A great graduation party requires great party food. Here's a round-up of easy to make, easy to serve recipes that are perfect for a graduation buffet.
A great graduation party requires great party food. Here's a round-up of easy to make, easy to serve recipes that are perfect for a graduation buffet.
College Admissions Myths
Embarking on a college search? Helping your child apply to college? Don't fall prey to these 10 college admissions myths.
Embarking on a college search? Helping your child apply to college? Don't fall prey to these 10 college admissions myths.
Early Decision
There are a variety of ways to apply to colleges, including regular admissions, early decision and early action. What does early decision mean?
There are a variety of ways to apply to colleges, including regular admissions, early decision and early action. What does early decision mean?
Transcripts & Test Scores
College may be a whole new start, but some basic high school paperwork - transcripts, AP results and test scores - needs to come along when you're headed for college.
College may be a whole new start, but some basic high school paperwork - transcripts, AP results and test scores - needs to come along when you're headed for college.
Quarterlife-5 Ways to Help
The upheaval of the twenties may be unavoidable as young college graduates chart a new course. But there are five things parents can do to help their 20something deal with quarterlife issues.
The upheaval of the twenties may be unavoidable as young college graduates chart a new course. But there are five things parents can do to help their 20something deal with quarterlife issues.
Apples to Apples Review
Apples to Apples has to top any college kid or teen's favorite board games list. Apples to Apples is a favorite dorm game, as well as a great icebreaker in any party setting.
Apples to Apples has to top any college kid or teen's favorite board games list. Apples to Apples is a favorite dorm game, as well as a great icebreaker in any party setting.
What Not to Bring to College
College Dorm Gear: Sheets? Check. Towels? OK. Assorted college dorm gear? Yes. But here are five things not to bring to college.
College Dorm Gear: Sheets? Check. Towels? OK. Assorted college dorm gear? Yes. But here are five things not to bring to college.
Coed Dorm Rooms
Coed Dorm Rooms: Whether you call it a coed dorm room or gender neutral housing, here's what the term means.
Coed Dorm Rooms: Whether you call it a coed dorm room or gender neutral housing, here's what the term means.
Selling Textbooks
Selling Used Textbooks - College textbooks cost a fortune, but you can recoup at least a few dollars by selling used textbooks to other students. The only question is, what to keep and what to sell?
Selling Used Textbooks - College textbooks cost a fortune, but you can recoup at least a few dollars by selling used textbooks to other students. The only question is, what to keep and what to sell?
Summer College Tours
Conventional wisdom says you can save cash and time by touring colleges during summer vacation. But when it comes to college visits, conventional wisdom is wrong. Here are 5 reasons not to do your college visits during summer break.
Conventional wisdom says you can save cash and time by touring colleges during summer vacation. But when it comes to college visits, conventional wisdom is wrong. Here are 5 reasons not to do your college visits during summer break.
Dorm First Aid
College kids have three lines of defense when it comes to staying healthy and coping with dorm emergencies and mishaps. Step one is a good dorm first aid kit.
College kids have three lines of defense when it comes to staying healthy and coping with dorm emergencies and mishaps. Step one is a good dorm first aid kit.
Bad Roommates
Heaps of moldy laundry, snarly moods, spontaneous "borrowing"? There's a silver lining to the bad roommates problem. Here are five good things about bad roommates.
Heaps of moldy laundry, snarly moods, spontaneous "borrowing"? There's a silver lining to the bad roommates problem. Here are five good things about bad roommates.
Cheap Dorm Decor
Cheap Dorm Room Decor: Got a child moving into a dorm room or a first apartment? Here are four tips to help cut costs.
Cheap Dorm Room Decor: Got a child moving into a dorm room or a first apartment? Here are four tips to help cut costs.
Taking Sick Kids Home
When College Kids Get Sick: When should you take your sick college kid home?
When College Kids Get Sick: When should you take your sick college kid home?
Best Quarterlife Books
Quarterlife crisis - Books on surviving and thriving as a 20-something, from identity crises to the relationship and career travails of quarterlife.
Quarterlife crisis - Books on surviving and thriving as a 20-something, from identity crises to the relationship and career travails of quarterlife.
Dorm Move-In Day
You’ve done the dorm shopping, loaded up on towels, totes and extra-long sheets. Now it’s time to pack for dorm move-in day. Here are 9 tips to make dorm move-in day easier.
You’ve done the dorm shopping, loaded up on towels, totes and extra-long sheets. Now it’s time to pack for dorm move-in day. Here are 9 tips to make dorm move-in day easier.
FAFSA Documents
Filling out financial aid paperwork is never fun, but getting these documents in order will help you fill out the FAFSA, the free application for federal student aid, in an hour or two.
Filling out financial aid paperwork is never fun, but getting these documents in order will help you fill out the FAFSA, the free application for federal student aid, in an hour or two.
Dorm Drop-Off Taboos
You've dropped off the kids. Now what? Here are 3 things to avoid after you drop the kids off at college.
You've dropped off the kids. Now what? Here are 3 things to avoid after you drop the kids off at college.
Voluntourism
The biggest trend in travel these days is voluntourism, a feel good combination of community service, sightseeing and fun. Voluntourism vacations are winners for families with older teens, college kids and 20somethings too. Here are some family travel tips on where to go, what to do and how.
The biggest trend in travel these days is voluntourism, a feel good combination of community service, sightseeing and fun. Voluntourism vacations are winners for families with older teens, college kids and 20somethings too. Here are some family travel tips on where to go, what to do and how.
Painted Clock
DIY Dorm Crafts: Every dorm room needs a clock, but no one said it had to be boring.
DIY Dorm Crafts: Every dorm room needs a clock, but no one said it had to be boring.
Well-Rounded Student Myth
We all believe in the myth of that college admissions holy grail, the well-rounded student. Truth is, that's not necessarily what college admissions officers are looking for - and that explains some of those college rejections.
We all believe in the myth of that college admissions holy grail, the well-rounded student. Truth is, that's not necessarily what college admissions officers are looking for - and that explains some of those college rejections.
Alternatives to Moving Home
When grown kids move home, it's usually because of financial woes - trouble finding a job or getting out from under crushing debt. Moving home may be a popular option for the Boomerang Generation, but it's not the only one for those of us parenting young adults.
When grown kids move home, it's usually because of financial woes - trouble finding a job or getting out from under crushing debt. Moving home may be a popular option for the Boomerang Generation, but it's not the only one for those of us parenting young adults.
Beyond the Orientation Tour
College orientation offers more than campus tours. It also gives parents a chance to get the lay of the collegiate land and figure out how to pre-pay textbooks, get birthday cakes delivered and other little niceties. Escape the college orientation tour and do a little exploring.
College orientation offers more than campus tours. It also gives parents a chance to get the lay of the collegiate land and figure out how to pre-pay textbooks, get birthday cakes delivered and other little niceties. Escape the college orientation tour and do a little exploring.
5 Identity Theft Tips
College Identity Theft: 5 ways to protect your teen against college identity theft.
College Identity Theft: 5 ways to protect your teen against college identity theft.
Tiki Topple
Strategy, betrayal and tikis too? This fast-paced board game - Tiki Topple - for two to four players will quickly land on your favorite board games list. Tiki Topple is a favorite dorm board game too.
Strategy, betrayal and tikis too? This fast-paced board game - Tiki Topple - for two to four players will quickly land on your favorite board games list. Tiki Topple is a favorite dorm board game too.
Gap Year
Gap years aren't just for Brits anymore. The concept of taking a year off to explore the world and do community service in far-flung climes has taken off stateside too. Here's the scoop.
Gap years aren't just for Brits anymore. The concept of taking a year off to explore the world and do community service in far-flung climes has taken off stateside too. Here's the scoop.
Roommates & Locked Doors
College Parents FAQS: Your child and the college roommate who won't lock the door.
College Parents FAQS: Your child and the college roommate who won't lock the door.
Collegetransfer
One of the biggest consolations for students rejected from the college of their dreams is that they can always do a college transfer later. But that's not always the case. If your child is interested in a college transfer, read these caveats first.
One of the biggest consolations for students rejected from the college of their dreams is that they can always do a college transfer later. But that's not always the case. If your child is interested in a college transfer, read these caveats first.