Ep 4: The Gift of This Stage: Parenting in the Launch Year
Lately, I’ve been thinking a lot about how grateful I am to be right here, right now—parenting four incredible kids who are all in the launch years of their lives.
Some are in college, some are figuring out their first jobs, and all of them are, in their own ways, growing into the adults they’re meant to be. And in the process, I’m realizing that Justin and I are growing, too.
This stage of parenting is complex. It’s full of laughter and laundry, of quiet pride and quiet fears. It’s the art of learning to let go without letting go of connection. And it’s also, sometimes to my surprise, full of deep gratitude.
Key Learnings:
74% of adult children want emotional support, not advice. This reminds me to listen more than I speak and to trust that they’re capable of figuring things out.
Respecting their autonomy isn’t just kind, it’s what builds stronger long-term relationships.
The brain doesn’t fully develop until around 25, so yes, that explains a lot, and it gives me patience. 😉
Parenting doesn’t end, it transforms. And in this season, I’m learning that transformation is a two-way street. As our kids discover who they are, we’re discovering new versions of ourselves, too. We’re learning to be mentors instead of managers, companions instead of controllers. We’re learning to hold space for their choices and to find joy in simply being present.
Takeaways for Anyone in This Season:
Show up with presence, not pressure.
Let your kids see your vulnerability—it’s not weakness; it’s an invitation for them to be real, too.
Remember: it’s okay not to have it all figured out. Your presence is enough.
Celebrate the small, silly moments (like six adults sharing one laundry room!) as much as the big milestones.
Most importantly, love them without condition and trust that they’re on their own journey.
This stage—parenting adult kids—isn’t always easy. But today, I’m choosing to see it for what it is: a gift. And I’m so grateful to be in it.
💛,
Sarah