Dorm Ready

From dorm budgeting and shopping to move-in day and beyond, this practical guide for parents will help you create a smoother, smarter, and simpler college transition for the whole family.

Preparing your child for college life can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to dorm living, move-in logistics, and knowing what they actually need while they’re away at school. In this comprehensive and approachable guide, founders of Simply2Moms—the lifestyle brand that has helped thousands of families confidently navigate the college transition—AnnMarie Christiano and Anne Zirkle share their trusted strategies, advice, and real-life solutions to work withyour child to get them dorm ready.

Drawing on years of experience with their own kids and helping other families, Christiano and Zirkle walk you through every stage of the process, including how to:

• Understand college housing options
• Build a realistic budget
• Shop with intention and avoid costly overbuying
• Create a functional, comfortable, well-designed living space
• Maximize—and compromise—in small shared spaces
• Pack strategically to navigate move-in day like a pro
• Set your student up to thrive throughout the school year

Beyond the dorm itself, Dorm Ready also offers thoughtful guidance for the emotional side of the transition, helping you support your student throughout this process and stay connected after drop-off. Filled with actionable tips, smart planning tools and worksheets, and reassuring encouragement, Dorm Ready is the indispensable resource to one of life’s biggest steps.