College Students Face “Blues” During Smaller Holidays

January 19, 2007 (Press Release) -- College students, especially freshmen can have a tough time adjusting to their new lives. They are living in a new place, trying to handle the academic pressure, make new friends and most importantly learn to get along without that security blanket called “home”. Not only are new students moving away from most of their friends, but also their parents, siblings, pets, and any traditions that the families might have created together.

Fortunately students are home for some of the more lonely times of year (Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years), but are away for some of the smaller holidays such as Valentines Day, St. Patrick’s Day, Halloween and Easter. It is important to let your child know that you are thinking about them on these days especially if you did anything with them as a family prior to them leaving. If you always baked cookies or gave chocolates for Valentines Day your student will definitely be missing that when he or she is away. If you always went to brunch on Easter, then sending a gift card to a local restaurant or a gourmet basket to them will help alleviate some of the homesickness that comes along with being away during special times. Imagine the surprise on your students face when he or she opens a box packed with goodies sent from home, or ordered by someone they love. Diane Braswell owner of www.creativegiftsource.com notes that; “It is important to try to keep up with family tradition especially that first year.” If your tradition was simply to give out small gifts it is important that you continue with that tradition (it will help reinforce to them that they may be away, but they are definitely in your thoughts).

If you have limited time and resources and can not put together your own package there are many places where you can order creative gift ideas for all occasions. Care packages specialized for college students always go over well. Students are always hungry and usually limited on resources so most of these care packages contain lots of snacks, comfort foods and other goodies that will make them smile. Additionally there are usually several choices for all of the holidays. Keep in mind that with students anything goes, you do not have to limit yourself to care packages. Sending your daughter who is stressed out a spa type gift basket would be a good choice, or sending a movie rental gift card (or better yet a whole movie night package) goes over well with students as does stuffed animals.

It is important to keep in mind, that in this case it really is the thought that counts, so if you can not put a package together or do not want to purchase a gift basket or care package, just send a good old fashioned letter with a few photos from home. It will go a long way!!! Nothing can replace being home, but with just a little time and thought, you can sure make it easier.