A Parent's Guide To Handling Boomerang Kids

It's not east when your adult kids decide to move back in to the nest – as a parent, that could mean you will have to do away with the arts and craft room, you will have to rearrange your schedules, move furniture around and be prepared to sacrifice a little of your privacy – none of this is fun and that is why accommodating boomerang kids can be so much of a challenge. However, it is worth reminding yourself that the underlying purpose is to support your child and give him everything he needs until he is able to stand back up on his own feet - achieving this may require you to be loving yet firm. Here are a few points worth keeping in mind when faced with such a situation:

1. It's absolutely imperative to define the rules and boundaries from the very beginning – take time out for yourself and, if required, establish a time or a space which would be dedicated to YOU only – this could be a personal library, a bedroom or a private home-office – any place which you could retreat to whenever you feel you’re being crowded and suffocated for personal space.

2. Communicate your schedules clearly and outline the absolutely important stuff (like taking your morning walk or sleeping for a couple of hours in the afternoon). Make it absolutely crystal clear as to what health problems you have and, as a result, what medicines, exercises, foods and routines are uncompromisable. On a less serious note, you may also want to clear up the little things like shower times, meal times and the division of household errands. If your adult kid is not doing a full time or part time job, then let him/her know that he/she will have to pitch in with the chores.

3. Balance is the name of the game. With young adults around the house, there is bound to be late night partying, friends being entertained at odd hours and loud music etc. Establishing rules and regulations around these activities as well will reap rich dividends in bouts of peace and quiet.

4. As a parent you may also feel compelled to do more for your adult kids. The rule of thumb should be "it's not an option, if you can't afford it". There is no point in financially, psychically and mentally draining yourself out because then you would not be in a position to give yourself and your children anything, ever. Instead opt to encourage your child to develop a high financial IQ by setting realistic financial goals and driving more value from each dollar spent. Also, give him/her the strength and encouragement to fight his own battles by working hard, being mentally strong and open to new ideas – this will not only help him NOW, it will help tremendously in the future as well.

The fact of the matter is that as human beings we grow and mature through adversity. Being a parent is a lifelong job; and when life throws a few curve balls at your child; that's when you will have to step up once again and coach him through this learning phase.

By: Gregg Rio

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Gregg Camp, the author of this article, sells Carmel Homes as well as writes on senior topics as an SRES. He enjoys selling Carmel Real Estate, also.