Why I can't EMPTY MY NEST

Almost a fifth of adults aged between 24 and 34 are checked in at the hotel of Mum and Dad. Here, Alex Fox, 57, shares her experience

- ASHLEIGH PAGE

As your children edge towards adulthood, you begin to fantasise about the day they fly the nest. The empty laundry basket, the quiet mornings, maybe even a yoga class or two. Endless time to fill with your own wants after decades of 'put your shoes on' battles and ferrying to and fro like a personal taxi service.

With three children, Lara, now 27, Seb, 23, and Xavier, 19, I expected that one by one they would pack up their belongings and embark on exciting adventures alone. To university, to the Big City, travelling the world, or even just across town with a partner.

But with the exception of Lara's four-month stint at university back in 2020, all three kids have stayed firmly under my roof. Even bringing in additional lodgers in the form of Xavier's lovely girlfriend, Hope, 19, and my niece Rose, also 19.

It's safe to say that our four-bedroom home in Cambridgeshire is bursting at the seams and my dining room has even been converted into a bedroom to create more space.

'Our home is bursting at the seams'

I work from home as a journalist and have done ever since Lara, Seb, and Xavier were little. They're used to me being around, but it was much easier when they were younger. Back then my day was regimented. Bath time, dinner time and bedtime were strict and at my command. After they'd been put down for the night, I could crack on with work for a few more hours.