Yes, child #1 is now in her own place and although I am saddened by her absence, I am extremely proud!
Many parents wonder how I can stay calm, watching my 1st baby moving away from home. I calmly remind them that we are preparing our children for this day from the moment we teach them to take their first steps. Unfortunately, many will avoid to prepare for this important day which then makes it difficult to accept.
Sure, I’m worried and scared, but I must be confident that I have taught her and all my children how to survive in the ‘real world’. Our children need to learn to take care of themselves, wash their own clothes, make meals and more importantly learn how to budget. Budgeting is a topic that is rarely taught, and which in turn is setting up our children for failure. Do we truly want our children to fail? Of course not…so let’s begin to teach them now.
Setting up a budget will help your child realize that expenses accrue daily and monthly. Seeing it on paper makes it real and will also help them determine if they are ready to move out on their own or perhaps get a room mate.
This is a new stage in both my child’s life and our life as parents. Everyday I pray harder for her safety, awareness and for her faith as well. The time has come for us to let go as parents. Let me tell you, it’s not easy but definitely necessary for the growth process to continue. The pride I have today is unmeasurable and makes me love my role of a parent more and more each day. The tears will be there but will soon subside because of the joy in knowing that a new day and a new adventure awaits just around the bend.
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
I hope I can be this way when the time comes. That is great that you can be that way. I dread it everyday
It’s difficult at first but gets better day by day. Our relationship has actually become stronger and I see her more and talk to her more than when she lived at home…. go figure