When you were raising your child, it was important to keep them close. However, now that your child is an adult, you’ll want them to have the confidence to set out on their own. If your grown son or daughter just can’t seem to fly away from the nest, you might have to set boundaries and speak with a therapist about this challenging transition. Here are a few ideas on how to move forward.

3 Ways to Help a Child Who Won’t Move Out

1. Treat Them Like an Adult

While you might have packed them sandwiches and washed their sheets when they were little, continuing to uphold this caretaker dynamic will prevent your grown son or daughter from beginning the next phase of their life. Let your child know that they’ll need to start doing their own laundry, washing their own dishes, and doing grocery runs for the house. Not only will this serve as a wake-up call, but it will also help boost their confidence and sense of independence. After all, they may not be staying home because they want to, but because they feel like they’re not prepared for adulthood.

2. Charge Them Rent

One of the major benefits of moving back home — or never moving out — is avoiding rent payments. If your child is working, they can simply pocket their income rather than devoting a portion of it toward rent, which is a clear advantage over getting their own place. To make them reconsider, announce that you’re going to start charging rent. While you don’t have to charge the going rate for your area, tell your child that you’ll increase the rent in six months. These gradual increases may have your son or daughter wondering why they’re staying home when they can pay rent elsewhere and enjoy total freedom.

3. Work With a Therapist

Some young adults have a hard time moving out because they don’t feel ready to face the “real world.” Whether your child has had trouble finding a job or likes living around their loved ones, a therapist can help them get to the bottom of their repressed fears about moving out. They may be dealing with anxiety, depression, or even addiction, which may be preventing them from wanting to look up real estate listings or leaving them unsure as to how they’ll cover rent. Whatever your child is dealing with, a counselor can help them face their mental health issues so they can enter the next phase of their life with a positive attitude.

If you’re hoping to reveal the advantages of moving out to your child but want some professional help, turn to Laurie Burns LCSW-R CGP of Rochester, NY. She has over 20 years of experience helping families and individuals come to agreements and realizations about their lives and relationships. Call this trusted therapist at (585) 734-6826 to schedule an appointment. Visit her website to learn more about her services.