Leaving the nest can be hard, but it’s going to happen at some point and quicker than you can imagine. Your children are going to grow up and start thinking about their future. Then before you know it, they are off to college or starting their journey in their first home.
Protecting your children when they are a small is a huge responsibility but doesn’t come with “Mom, I’m 18. I know what I’m doing” so how do you take a step back while ensuring their safety when they aren’t tucked up under your roof?
Start Young
How we talk to our children and the environment we surround them with will shape their future in a number of ways. If you have young boys it’s just as important to talk to them about respecting girls as it is teaching your girls to be confident in themselves.
If you are bringing up your children with your husband or partner make sure your relationship represents a strong and trusting bond. We all argue, that’s normal, but allowing your children to be surrounded by love, support and respect will ensure they go into adulthood with the same core values.
Ensure they are Secure
Aside from the obvious reference to bringing your children up to feel secure, it’s important for most parents to know their children are actually secure in their new home or dwellings. If they are in college digs you can research the security on campus. But if they are moving into a rental it’s worth investing in something like the Frontpoint home security system. Knowing they are protected by an alarm will give you far more sleep and will be a fantastic investment in their safety.
Talk to the real estate agents to find out what you can do and what would breach your contract before you make any changes to a rental property though.
Teach Them To Save
Life can take tragic turns financially. We’ve all been there at some point and the chances are your children will hit hard times too. Ensuring your children have an understanding of money from a young age is vital. Simple tasks, when they hit the appropriate age, such as helping clear the yard for pocket money will teach them the balance of work to earnings. Start a saving fund for them and encourage them to use it by making deposits with them. As they get older they may want a job. Advising your children to put some money aside each week and showing them how quickly that money builds up will give them a positive feeling towards spending and saving. Perhaps consider offering earnings incentives, for every $50 they save, you’ll give them $10 to spend.
Buy Them A Phone
Insure it too! Kids are notorious at losing or damaging things! When they are away nothing gives you more peace of mind than knowing they can get in touch with you whenever they want. Although it’s more likely you’ll be calling them, they’ll be out enjoying their new found freedom and getting into all kinds of teenage trouble!
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