Congratulation on your son or daughter’s college admission! Since this might be the first time that your teenager has been away from home, helping your teen take care of his or her own health is the first priority that parents should do. A good first aid kit full of supplies is a great going back to school gift.

What to Pack

First, figure out what it is you need to pack. Start with the basics for if your teen has a cut, scrape or minor burn; sprains, strains and other similar injuries. Consider packing:

• Adhesive bandages in different sizes
• Non-stick gauze: To cover larger wounds
• Adhesive tape: To help secure the gauze
• Antibiotic ointment: To prevent infections in a wound or minor burn
• Elastic bandage: To wrap and provide compression for sprains and strains
• Ice pack: For when an injury first occurs
• Warm pack or heating pad: For bringing warmth and blood flow to an older injury

We have done some research and recommend:

Johnson & Johnson First Aid Kit, Safe Travels

It is portable and organized out of the home first aid. Over 40 items with A clear durable plastic box.

Add a Few Extras

It is a great idea to include a card in the first aid kit that provides some basic health information about your student in the case of an emergency. Also, add the telephone numbers that your child might need. Information to include:

• Telephone number for your child’s personal physician
• Campus health’s telephone number
• Telephone number for your student’s health insurance
• Copies of your student’s insurance card
• Emergency contact information (parents’ name and any telephone numbers you could be reached at).

Packing up a first aid kit is a great gift for your teen to start his or her new college life. It’s also a reminder to always stay safe and take care of his or her health while away from home.