The day you’ve been preparing for (and maybe dreading!) is finally here - your child is off to university, and suddenly the house feels quieter than ever. The “empty nest” phase is a big adjustment for any parent. While you’re thrilled for your child’s next chapter, you might be left wondering, “What now?”
Here are some ways to embrace this new season and find fulfilment, even as you adjust to life without them at home.
- Give Yourself Time to Grieve (Yes, Really!)
It’s okay to feel sad when they leave. In fact, it’s completely natural! Don’t rush through your emotions or try to push them aside. Give yourself time to process the change. It’s a significant shift, and it’s perfectly fine to miss them. Take those first few weeks to feel all the feelings without any guilt attached.
- Rediscover Hobbies You Love
Remember those activities you used to love but never seemed to have time for? Now’s the perfect opportunity to dive back in! Whether it’s gardening, painting, reading, or even just going for long walks, having something enjoyable to focus on can make the adjustment easier.
- Stay Connected, But Don’t Overdo It
It’s tempting to check in with your child every day (or multiple times a day!), but remember - they need space to adjust too. Set up regular times for a chat, whether it’s a weekly phone call or a quick message now and then. Trust that they’ll reach out when they need you. This way, you’re staying involved without making them feel smothered.
And for those times when you want to send a little something, Boarding Bite has a range of snack boxes that you can personalise and send their way - showing you care without hovering.
- Plan for Visits and Reunions
Looking forward to seeing your child again can give you a much-needed boost. Whether it’s planning a visit to their university or preparing for them to come home during the holidays, having these dates on the calendar can help ease the separation.
- Focus on Your Own Well-being
With more time to yourself, you can finally focus on some self-care. Whether it’s taking a weekend away with friends, starting a fitness routine, or indulging in a bit of relaxation, use this time to prioritise your own needs. Balanced nutrition plays a big part in maintaining mental well-being, so don’t forget to keep your snack drawer filled with something healthy and tasty.