Can Parents Visit Dorms - EducationEffects

College is an exciting time filled with new experiences, people, and lessons. However, this time can be hard on both the new students and their parents.

Some parents have been left wondering how often they can visit their children and whether or not they should.

Are Parents Allowed To Visit College Dorms?

Yes, parents are typically allowed to visit college dorms. However, each campus will have varying rules, regulations, and restrictions. For example, some colleges allow a max number of visitors per semester. For the most accurate answer, check with your dorm’s residential assistant.

Who Can Visit The Dorms?

Commonly, parents and non-college visitors are allowed in the dorms. However, these individuals may only be permitted to stay for one night. Other campuses will have different rules and regulations. Depending on the campus, you may be able to host guests including:

Significant Others
Parents
Younger & Older Siblings
Friends

As always, be sure to check with your college campus’s residential staff before making any decisions. You can check your campus’s website or speak with a counselor for information as well.

How Long Can Non-Students Stay In Dorms?

The time frame for how long non-college students and parents can stay in the dorms will vary. Some campuses allow visitors to stay up to one month, as long as they have somewhere to sleep within the room.

Other campuses require students to make special requests with the RA’s or administration. These requests might be handled by a committee or board. The time frame of these requests will vary from college to college as well.

For the most accurate answer, be sure to speak with your dorm’s residential assistant or your college’s administrative staff.

How Often Can Parents Visit College Dorms?

As mentioned earlier, each college campus will differ significantly. Some colleges are very relaxed about visitors. Other campuses will have strict rules and guidelines students must follow. As always, be sure to check with your college’s administrative staff before making any decisions.

How Often Should Parents Visit College Dorms?

One question parents might have is, “How often should I visit my child in college?” This is an entirely normal and understandable question.

The answer to this question is going to come down to personal preference and budget. The distance you need to travel will significantly impact how often you can visit your child.

However, many individuals suggest only visiting your child once or twice a semester. Keep in mind, your child is becoming an adult and needs time to grow into their personality.

Alternatively, if you live very close, you can visit once a month or more. If you live a very far distance, it might be best to save your travels for special occasions and holidays.

For the best results, speak with your child about what he or she needs. Maybe your child wants more alone time and independence. Or, your kid could be homesick and need some extra love. Finding the balance will result in a stronger relationship between you and your child.

How Often Should I Call My Child At College?

Unfortunately, not all of us can hop on a plane or car to visit our children every month. However, we can always schedule a phone call to catch up with our loved ones.

Many parents suggest calling their college-aged children at least once a week. This may be especially important during the first semester. During the first semester, students are adjusting and getting acquainted with their surroundings. This time is both stressful and exciting, so hearing a familiar voice often is helpful.

What Should I Avoid When Visiting My College-Aged Children?

As we all know, college is a time of self-discovery and exploration. During this time, students are branching out, pushing their limits, and exploring possibilities. That’s why it’s crucial to support our children during this time.

Avoid trying to clean up for your child when you come to visit. Their dorm might be a bit messy or unorganized. This is entirely normal and par for the course. Allow them their personal space and privacy by not intervening.

Avoid nagging and berating your child when you go to visit them. Visiting your children should be fun and filled with joy. Save the lectures on phone calls or budgeting for another time.

Avoid drawing out the visit. As the saying goes, distance makes the heart grow fonder. Don’t visit with your child for too long and make them feel like their back at home. Remember, they need their personal space and independence as much as you do.

What Should I Do When I Visit My Child At College?

There are plenty of great things you can do when visiting your children at college. Showing your support and love is an excellent way to bring confidence to your child.

Bring a gift when visiting your child at college. It could be something simple, small, or extravagant. Gift cards, food, local treats, and even toiletries make excellent gifts for college-aged adults.

Let your child know how proud you are of them! We can all get insecure and down about ourselves. This is especially true for young adults. Kind words of encouragement and support go a long way, especially when it comes from someone we love.

Be sure to listen to your child, ask questions, and offer advice where you can. Your child is experiencing new situations, environments, and people. Hear them out and ask them what they think.

Always have a plan when you visit your child at college. Your children might think hanging out in the dorm room is enough. However, no one wants to hang out in a smelly cramped space. Take your child out to lunch or out on the town instead.