Science Shows: Your Kids Are NOT Adults at 18!!! How to Parent and Prepare ‘Emerging Adults ages 18-25'

Are you wondering why your 18-year-old still acts like a teenager? Science confirms it—they’re not fully adults yet. So how do you parent emerging adults ages 18–25 with wisdom, influence, and connection?

In this powerful episode, we share the essential mindset and parenting strategies you need to guide your teens and young adults through their most formative and vulnerable years.

We dive into why your role as a parent doesn’t stop at 18—and why your influence matters even more during this critical “emerging adulthood” phase.

Learn why respect must be earned (not assumed), why leveling up as a parent is non-negotiable, and how to stay connected while still holding high standards. We also unpack the difference between rigid rules and principled living, why exposure to the real world is crucial (not dangerous), and how to foster real-world readiness through honest conversation and example—not fear, shame, or control.

Whether your child is making choices that don't align with your values, or just pulling away, this episode will equip you with the tools to respond with love, leadership, and lasting impact.

This is your next level of parenting—and it’s never too late to start.

🔑 Key Takeaways

✅ Science shows the brain isn’t fully developed until 25-27

✅ Influence must be earned—respect is not automatic

✅ Model the standards you want to see in your kids

✅ Don’t parent with rigidity—teach principles with flexibility

✅ Exposure is safer than naivety—prepare your kids for real life

✅ Keep growing if you want your kids to keep listening

📍 Chapters

00:00 Navigating Parenting Beyond 18

03:25 Understanding Adulthood and Brain Development

05:54 The Role of Family Structure in Adulthood

09:15 Reframing Independence and Support

11:46 Mentorship and Guidance in Emerging Adulthood

14:49 Building Generational Wealth and Legacy

17:22 Open Conversations About Relationships

20:31 Researching and Discussing Complex Topics

23:44 Navigating Modern Relationships and Challenges

28:37 The Role of Parenting in Adulthood

31:25 Earning Respect Through Personal Growth

34:32 Navigating Adult Choices and Responsibilities

37:27 Teaching Principles Over Rules

40:40 The Importance of Open Communication

43:28 Exposure to Life's Realities

46:38 Flexibility in Parenting Standards

49:39 Next Level Parenting for Young Adults

🗣 Memorable Quotes

🗣 “Respect is earned—not automatic—especially with your adult kids.”

🗣 “If you’re not leveling up, you’re leveling off.”

🗣 “Don’t protect your kids from the world—prepare them for it.”

🗣 “We parent with principles, not with rigidity.”

🗣 “Your influence only lasts as long as your example does.”

RESOURCES:

Let us help you in your extraordinary family life journey.

• Free 6 Step Guide: How We Raised 7 Well-Adjusted Kids - Without Yelling, Tantrums, Punishments or Power Struggles (+ get THE CHECKLIST: Things We Do Every Day to Raise Well-Adjusted Kids)

• Rachel’s ⁠⁠Must-Read Booklist for Well-Read Moms⁠⁠

• Greg's ⁠⁠Recommended Reading List for Parents & Youth⁠⁠

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