Key Takeaways:

• The process of raising children aims to prepare them to thrive independently rather than keeping them at home.
• Transitioning to an "open nest" allows for relationships to evolve, fostering a friendship between parents and young adults.
• Parents have the opportunity to deeply appreciate who their children are becoming, while children gain newfound appreciation for their parents.
• Family interactions become more intentional and meaningful once children have left home, as time together is a choice rather than an expectation.
• The journey of parenthood doesn't end when children leave the house; it simply evolves into a new role of guidance and support.

Notable Quotes:

• "Our role wasn't to raise our children who stay, our role was to raise adults who can thrive on their own."
• "I think an open nest is a home where parents can shift their relationship to a friendship."
• "Leaving home doesn't end your role, it changes it. You're less of a director, you're more of a guide."
• "Remember, raising teens isn't about keeping them close forever. It's about helping them grow strong enough to fly."

Click here to contact Collett or ask her a question or Click here to contact the Raising Teens team.

Collett is a psychologist, qualified teacher, speaker, and internationally published author, with 25 years' experience working in private and public schools, as well as in private practice.

Visit Raising Teens for more resources, click here for Collett's books, or join the discussion on Facebook.

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