As teens transition to young adults, parents have to pivot their approach to parenting. In this article we are going to discuss three ways parents with young adult children can continue to support them, and have a healthy relationship.
1 – Have Healthy Boundaries
As children become adults they need less and less support from their parents, it is, however, important for parents to have healthy boundaries.
Healthy boundaries allow both children and parents to communicate their wants and needs, while also respecting the wants and needs of each other.
You’ll want to consider setting healthy boundaries around physical spaces like bedrooms, curfews, and when it’s okay to have friends over to the house.
By continually asking yourself this and being respectful of their independence, you are putting yourself in the position to make decisions that have and reinforce healthy boundaries with you and your child.
2 – Let Them Make Their Own Decisions
A part of becoming an adult is having the responsibility of making your own decisions. For parents with a young adult child it is important for young adults to learn to have responsibility and that there are consequences to their actions. Ideally, they could learn this lesson before they reach college or adulthood. But, it’s never too late.
This can be difficult, but if young adults don’t have the space to fail and are constantly given too much support then they won’t become ready to function independently in the real world. Although, you don’t want to give them so much space that the young adult starts to feel they can’t rely on you (as the parent) at all.
You need to determine a balance that works for you and your child, depending on what situation you may be faced with.
3 – Listen, Don’t Advise
Finally, the last way you can support your young adult child is to listen to them. Just being present with them when they have an issue, and feel the need to talk can accomplish a lot. Not just for them, but for your parent-child relationship as well. This demonstrates you are dependable but not overbearing.
By taking the time to listen to them without telling them exactly what to do, this can give them the feeling of support which may have been all they needed. By being respectful of their autonomy you give them the opportunity to ask for advice if they desire it. And when that happens they are more likely to listen and trust what is being said.
If you are a parent or young adult and you feel you could use help with any of these topics, and are interested in starting therapy, schedule an appointment today to start building better relationships with your family!