We do hear from parents on the empty nest syndrome and this is what they say.
Acknowledge how you feel
- You may all feel quite stressed when getting ready for your kids leaving home. Lots of your time may be taken up with helping them to get things ready.
- Talk about it. If arguments are flaring up near to the time when your kids are leaving home, talk about how you are feeling. But remember to try not to make your child feel guilty about flying the nest as this will cause resentment.
- You may feel quite a shock when they are gone - almost like grieving. Think about ways of keeping in touch if they don't live round the corner, such as learning how to email. Or, if they have moved locally invite them over for dinner or plan a shopping trip together.
- Be aware of how you are with any of your children who are still at home. Try not to over compensate with other children who may feel suffocated by too much attention.
Rediscover yourself and your relationships
- Make plans for the weeks after they have moved out so that you keep busy and start making time to enable you to rediscover yourself and your relationships.
- Do something that will help you to rediscover yourself. You may have more time for yourself now that the washing and ironing has gone down! Whether it is spending more time with friends or pursuing a dream - think about what you want.
- If you have a partner you may feel you want to rediscover your relationship now the focus has gone from the kids. Think of things to do together without the children.
Boomerang
- Don't forget that if they are going to college they will soon be back in the holidays. Prepare yourself for this if you have got used to having the place to yourself.
- If they live round the corner they may want to assert their independence but you can bet they still want to be around.
If you need advice or support on any parenting or family issue, call our free helpline on 0808 800 2222.
