"Help me set limits with my adult kids"

Here, loving ways to communicate and create healthy boundaries with your grown-up children

- KRISTINA MASTROCOLA

ID your needs

It's okay that it's hard

Creating boundaries with adult kids is challenging for all parents. “Your child is an extension of yourself, and it's unnatural to set boundaries with yourself,” says expert Tina Gilbertson with a laugh. “You want to be kind but don't want to be a pushover, and it's hard to find a balance—but not impossible.” She suggests first asking yourself what your limits are. “For example, you might realize it's not okay for your kids to suddenly show up for the weekend with no notice, even though you want to see them. We often leap to making boundaries without asking ourselves what we actually need, so it helps to reflect.”

Cue positivity