How to Tell When Your Child is Ready to Move Out of Your House

Someday, and sooner than you think, your child is going to want to move out of your home and go off on their own.  There’s an odd dynamic between parents and children when this happens.  For your child, moving out means becoming an adult, being independent and becoming their own person.  For you, the move will mean that you did your work well as a parent, which is an accomplishment, but it will also mean the end of an era, which can be heart-wrenching.  It's up to you to be calm and relaxed about your child moving out, and you'll help to ease this important transition.

As your child gets older, they’ll naturally become more financially independent and wiser with their money.  This achievement of financial maturity is a sign that they’re getting ready to move, as is saving up the money to go.  You may find them browsing apartment listings and looking at adverts for home rentals on their computer.  Don’t hold them back them with “You’re not ready!” warnings and scare-tactics.  It’s hard enough for a child to move out of their parent’s house for the first time, and they need you to believe that they can do it, even if you wish you could raise them all over again.

Your child will also likely start spending more time with friends when they’re getting ready to move, and you’ll start to notice these friends hanging around more.  These people are likely to become their roommates, so be nice to them and help them out where you can.  You’ll likely notice that your teen acts a lot more mature when they’re about ready to move and will ask for less help in everyday activities.

At the most fundamental level, however, a parent really knows in their heart when their child is ready to move.  Accepting it is usually harder than identifying it.  Take it as a sign of a job well done as their parent, and be supportive and excited about the next big step stage in their life!