1. Research for yourself some activities that your child’s university offers; this way, you can simply tell your child what time and place to be at a certain event, so he or she does not have to search for something to do.

2. Send or bring from home a certain memorable object that would make your child feel good. For example, if your daughter left her special teddy bear at home, bring it up to school to make her more at home.

3. If your child’s school is driving distance, plan a date on a Sunday when you can drive up for the day to take your child out to lunch. A good meal with those you love is always heartwarming.

4. If your child’s school is a plane ride away, send a round trip ticket that can be redeemed anytime he or she is in desperate need to come home.

5. A homemade batch of brownies or cookies will always cheer someone up. Even if your son or daughter doesn’t like sweets, sharing homemade desserts is a great way to met new friends!

6. Send your child a new shirt, pair of pants, or funky accessory. New clothes are a great incentive to get out of your dorm room and show off your new look.

7. Surprise your child with a special activity that he or she can look forward to doing with you: tickets to a Broadway show, box seats at a baseball game, or even just a plan to spend the day together in your city.

8. Take some responsibilities off your child’s chest if he or she is feeling overwhelmed; by simply taking charge of a few effortless tasks in your child’s life, you will spare your child the time and energy that can be used in better ways. Agree to be responsible for refilling your child’s prescriptions, making doctor and haircut appointments, and sending any unnecessary bills or other mail to your home address.

9. Tell your child how proud you are of his or her accomplishments, new friends, or independence; believe it or not, those words really do make a difference.

10. Lastly, if financially able, sending some extra money will guarantee a smile on your child’s face. Whether your child’s vice is shopping, fine dining, a massage, or ordering late night Domino’s, extra cash is always a necessity!