Children going to college are challenged when leaving the comfort of their homes, where everything is done by their parents. Suddenly they realize responsibility as they embark upon the next step in life’s journey to college. The decisions that moms or dads make with respect to every day life are theirs to grapple with. Where can they turn to find simple and useful resources to resolve everyday confrontations? The Prepared Parent’s Operational Manual is a guide for the new college scholar in finding these answers. It is a well thought out set of check lists which can be used in day to day life by a transitioning generation.

Starting college is a time in life when recent graduates move forward to a first time out in the world living alone or with others. It is when a little extra help is needed. Practical advice is given for both the parent and child (or now young adult) by providing simple ideas. Sending a care package of snacks and goodies by the parent or being alert to identity theft by the young person are only a couple of extra bits of advice which are discussed. How to pack a suitcase, what emergency tools should be carried in the car, or locating the nearest hospital are some others. These may be a little mundane to a parent who is experienced in the world, but the student might be a little overwhelmed when faced with having to do these tasks alone.

This book was written by Marie Pinak Carr with the assistance of her daughters Katharine, Ann and Elizabeth who experienced four colleges. They used similar lists to guide them in their sojourns and they developed this Manual based upon experiences that worked for them.

A great graduation gift for both parents and children as they all go off to college! ( )