Parent & Family Insider

February can be the “wait … is it still winter?” month in Seattle. So, here’s a quick mid-quarter check-in with a few key dates, support resources and some easy ideas to help your Husky feel a little more grounded.

Check out important dates, events, opportunities and deadlines on our website!

• Monday, Feb. 16: Presidents Day (no classes).
• Saturday, Feb. 28 (11:59 p.m.): Deadline to lower a dining plan level for spring quarter (for students using HFS dining plans).

If your student is feeling the gray days a little extra, they’re not alone — and the UW has support ready.

• Husky HelpLine (24/7): 206-616-7777 (same-day, confidential support).
• UW Counseling Center: Mental health support and referrals available for ongoing care.
• “Happy lamp” options on campus: Light therapy lamps are available at the UW Health Sciences Library, the Odegaard Wellness Room and the Serenity Space at the Samuel E. Kelly Ethnic Cultural Center.

Family note: You don’t have to fix it. A simple “I’m really glad you told me” can be a big deal.

Learn more about Husky HelpLine and light therapy lamps.

If your student needs a laptop/tablet/camera/mic/projector for a class or project, the UW’s Student Technology Loan Program (STLP) lets students borrow equipment for free (availability varies).

One of the best winter-quarter “mood boosters” is something low pressure and in person — even if they show up solo. Craft nights, board games, bake/paint events, ceramics workshops, public lectures … it all counts.

Where to browse what’s happening:

• HuskyLink (student org events) 
• Seattle Campus Calendar
• Q Center events
• UW Libraries events

Fun February check-in question (very important research): Who’s your favorite Pokémon?

Seattle in February is peak cozy-drizzle season — and a visit can be a big morale boost mid-quarter. We’ve pulled together winter-friendly ideas (packing tips, indoor favorites, athletics and even a mountain day trip):

• Wintertime in Seattle (visiting guide)
• General visitor info (parking, maps, basics)

Bonus tip: Presidents Day weekend can be a great time to visit if your student’s schedule is lighter.

Copy/paste (works for all living situations and families near or far):

• “What’s one small win from this week?”
• “What’s taking the most energy right now — classes, people or logistics?”
• “Want help making a plan, or do you just want me to be your hype person today?”
• “What’s one thing you want March-you to thank February-you for?”

With care,

Jannah Maresh (she/her)
Director, Parent & Family Programs
University of Washington
[email protected] | Parent & Family Programs

P.S. If you need a no-pressure conversation starter that isn’t about grades: “What’s one small win from this week?” (Even “I got out of bed” counts, especially in February.)