Empty Nest Syndrome Tips to Help

The transition between being a parent of a teenager and a parent of an adult child is yet another difficult time for us. Use these tips to help you prepare.

Make use of the space...
Although you don't want to make your child feel like your pushing them out the door, make plans for the space that they have occupied before they leave. Order something new for the room that will come in a couple of days after they leave. If you wait until they are gone you may find yourself putting it off.

Do Something...
Volunteer, take a class, find a new hobby or pick up an old one. Anything that will take up the time you devoted to your teenager on a daily basis.

Take a trip... and take your honey.
Rekindle your romance by taking off somewhere, talking about the future, and making plans. Think of it as a second honeymoon that will start off the second part of your relationship.

Make those care packages...
You can still do things for your child and it will make you feel better to do them. There is nothing better than getting groceries from mom, or a set of towels for their new apartment. Try not to overdo in the beginning, and don't add any strings on to the gifts.

Congratulate Yourself!
Although the job of being a parent is never done, you have reached a goal. You have raised an independent young adult, which is no easy task... give yourself a pat on the back for a job well done.

Get support...
If you find your are having a very hard time with your child leaving home, get some help from your family doctor, minister, or other parents. Life changes are extremely hard, and the empty nest syndrome can make the baby blues look like a skip thru the meadow.

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