Preparing for an Empty Nest

Preparing for an Empty Net: Easing the Transition

Many parents think ahead to the day when their children will leave home. Some might do so in anticipation, especially if the adolescent and teen years were particularly challenging. Others may worry about losing their children to adulthood and the unavoidable change in the child-parent relationship. No matter what your expectation, taking steps to prepare for an empty nest may help you and your child maintain emotional balance through this bittersweet transition.

Preparing yourself by preparing your children

When the time comes for your child to leave home, your own anxiety will be eased if you know your child is prepared for living life without daily parental advice and intervention. Here are some strategies that you can begin when your child is young that will prepare your child for life without mom and dad.