Parenting Your Adult Kids

After reading about the following story in the news, I’ve realized how important Dr. Randy’s message is about overtime parenting.

A 30 year old man has to leave his parents’ home. It came down to a court decision. His parents were encouraging Michael Rotondo to get a job and get out of the house. They served him several eviction notices. In one, they even offered some financial help but he wouldn’t leave and now he has to.

“Overtime” Parenting: Your Kid’s Adult Years  – Dr. Randy

After you guide your children through the challenges of life from birth to adulthood, you will find that your coaching is not quite finished, and there will be some “overtime” to play.

• Know your role. It is no longer your responsibility to be a sole provider. Provide emotional support and encouragement. Be a friend and, when appropriate, share advice you have gleaned from your experiences.
• Hold them accountable. As adults, your children need to forge their own way. Early on, they may have a tendency to rely on you as a backstop for bad financial or relationship decisions. Don’t relieve them of the consequences of their choices.
• Let reality be the teacher. Ultimately, this means releasing your children. It will likely be the toughest thing you do as a parent, but it is the only way for them to reach their God-given potential.