Two short years ago, during my sophomore year at Penn State, I became an auntie to an adorable little boy named Sammy. When he was born, I was constantly worried about being away from him and not spending enough time getting to know the newest addition to my family tree. When my whole family was all googly-eyed over him, I had to be hours away studying for my next test.
If you’re a collegiette with older brothers and sisters like me, you might have the same feelings with your niece(s) or nephew(s). Well, stress no more. I have come up with 4 ways to be the best possible Aunt while you’re away from the little one in your life.
1. Get your brother or sister to set up Skype.
When Sammy first started calling people by their names I was thrilled to get home to hear him say “Aunt Ashley!” (or “Aunt Bubba” as he now calls me). But I was pretty mortified when I showed up and he kept calling me “Stacey,” which is my sisters’ name. I spent a lot of time working with him while I was home so he knew who I was, asking him over and over again “What’s my name?” I felt out of the loop and pretty upset that my own nephew didn’t know me.
You can avoid this dilemma by setting up a Skype account to connect with your brother or sister. This will help your niece or nephew recognize your face and your name without all the confusion. Plus, little kids love computer screens and pretty much anything with buttons.
2. Send small gifts or cards on holidays or special occasions.
Let’s face it, we still get excited to get packages at our apartment or dorm. So, think about how elated your nice or nephew would be to get something in the mail from their favorite Auntie. One small gesture can mean a lot to the youngster in your life. Sending something lets them know you’re thinking of them, without breaking the bank. Small things like cards (Sammy loves the ones that play music or make noise), candy, and small toys work best.
Tip: USPS has “It fits, it ships” boxes for super cheap. The small box can easily fit a card, some candy, and other little knick-knacks for only $5.35!
3. Help them show Penn State pride.
This step is an absolute must. What kind of PSU Auntie would you be if you didn’t help your niece or nephew dress like a Nittany Lion?
As soon as I found out my sister, Michelle was having a boy I splurged on all the cutest PSU onesies, hats, sweatshirts, and bibs. But, I took spoiling to a whole new level this fall when we found out my other sister, Stacey, was having a baby girl. There really is nothing cuter than a pink Penn State onesie and hair bows to match. My new niece should be here any day now and I can’t wait to see her and Sammy dressed to impress in all of their Penn State clothes.
You can pick up some blue and white (or pink) clothes for your niece or nephew almost anywhere Penn State clothes are sold.
4. Babysit or spend as much time as possible with him/her when you’re home.
This one might seem a little obvious but it can sometimes be easy to get caught up in working or seeing all of your old friends while you’re home. Because you’re away from them for most of the year, spending time with them face to face is the most important thing.
Depending on their age, your niece or nephew is probably still learning and getting to know you as their Aunt. Babysitting is the best way to connect because it gives the two of you one-on-one time. It can also help him or her become extra familiar with you and get comfortable with you taking care of them while their mom or dad is away. Not to mention, I’m sure your brother or sister would love a free babysitting service for the short time you’re home.
It can sometimes be hard to perform the balancing act between being a busy Collegiette and a somewhat absent aunt, but it doesn’t always have to be a challenge. Use these steps to help keep yourself connected to the smallest members of your family tree while you’re away.