You always knew that this day would come: your child is leaving for college. They’ve packed up their cars, gathered their things and all you can think about is how much you’re going to miss them.

This is only natural: you want what’s best for them and for their entire lives. Now that they are “leaving the nest,” you need to learn how to let them transition to live on their own, no matter how difficult it might be.

But just because you’re far away doesn’t mean you can’t show them how much you love and support them. Sending a care package, for example, is one way that you can show your college student how much you care.

Take this as an opportunity to get creative. Here are five amazing ideas to start making care packages of your own.

Cornerstone University offers exam survival kits for parents to buy for their student(s). Save this page and surprise your student with a care package during finals week.

SIGNED, SEALED AND DELIVERED

1. HEALTHY CHOICES

You don’t know what your student has been eating in the cafeteria, but you can probably guess what they’ve been eating outside of it. While junk food might be cheap, easy and tasty in the moment, it shouldn’t be used to fuel their studies. Send a box full of healthy snacks that they love but might not be able to afford: dried fruits, nuts, oatmeal, granola bars, etc. Then they can munch while they study, without gaining “the freshman fifteen.”

2. STUDY SUPPLIES

There’s nothing worse than running out of index cards the night before midterms. Show your student that you care about their studies by sending them a box of school supplies and study helps. This doesn’t have to be boring, either; feel free to pick out bright highlighters and funny stickers to motivate them to finish their work. This way, they can do their homework and maybe have some fun at the same time.

3. TOILETRIES AND MORE

Sometimes, it’s hard to remember that although studying is important, so is hygiene and rest. Send your student a collection of their favorite lotions, soaps, shampoos and body washes. This will remind them that it’s okay to take a break once and awhile to take care of themselves, too.

4. STRESS RELIEF

Care packages don’t always have to be practical; sometimes students need a little fun, as well. Fill up a box of cheap toys and games from the dollar store: bubble wands, Slinkies and Silly Putty included. Don’t forget to throw in a pair of fuzzy socks for extra comfort!

5. TASTE OF HOME

At the end of the day, your student might be feeling a little homesick. Take this as an opportunity to send them a box of their favorite things. Family pictures, cute notes and a few tubs of baked goodies will help them power through until the end of the semester.

THE TAKEAWAY

Distance doesn’t have to drive you apart: with a little effort and creativity, it could even pull you closer. Don’t let this first year of college make you feel like your job as a parent is done. Your child will always need your support, and with care packages like these, they’ll be sure to feel loved.

Don’t forget! CU also offers affordable exam survival kits for on-campus students.