Are you overwhelmed by social media dorm trends and giant retail packing checklists? You are not alone.

In this episode of The Positively Healthy Mom, we are breaking down the ultimate guide to college transition prep. We sit down with Lara Becker, founder of The Dorm Guide and author of The Dorm Room Guide, to cut through the consumer noise and focus on what your rising college freshman actually needs for a happy, healthy, realistic and budget-friendly move-in day.

Lara shares her expert, practical advice on navigating the emotional "senior summer" rollercoaster, stepping back to let your teen take the lead, and avoiding the over-shopping trap fueled by viral TikTok and Instagram dorm reveals.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why you should throw out standard retail packing lists and what the true essentials are.
• How to avoid the "Ritz-Carlton" dorm trend and style a functional, comfortable space without overspending.
• Understanding your teen's complex emotions and back-and-forth behavior before they leave.
• Practical ways to give your rising college student real responsibility before move-in day.
• Why a simple measuring tape is your best friend during college visits.

Whether you are feeling the emotional weight of letting go or just trying to figure out how to fit your life into an extra-long twin bed setup, this episode is the perfect antidote to back-to-school anxiety. Tune in for an honest, grounded conversation that balances the logistics of packing with the heart of parenting.

Support from Host Laura Ollinger:

• Positively Healthy University - Right now she can handle her schedule, her grades, her responsibilities. What she's still building is the emotional toolkit she'll need when she's on her own. Enroll her in Positively Healthy University today!
• Connect On Instagram: @positivelyhealthycoaching
• Let’s Work Together To Make Your Connection With Your Teen or Young Adult Joyful!
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