Parenting Your Adult Kids Without Losing the Relationship - The Family Podcast

Parenting adult kids means shifting from control to connection—this episode unpacks four biblical principles to help you build trust, encourage independence, and keep the relationship strong.

Based on the book “Doing Life with Your Adult Children: Keep Your Mouth Shut and the Welcome Mat out” by Jim Burns.

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How to Parent Your Adult Kids Without Losing the Relationship

Parenting doesn’t stop when your kids become adults—but it definitely changes. If you keep treating them like teenagers, you’ll sabotage your relationship. Jim Burns, in his book Doing Life with Your Adult Children, gives practical principles for navigating this tricky new season. The big idea? Shift from control to connection.

This topic will explore four core principles from Burns to help parents make the shift from authority figures to trusted advisors—and become the kind of parents adult kids actually want to talk to. Whether you’re struggling to keep your mouth shut or wondering what role you now play in their lives, this guide will give you biblical wisdom and practical advice.

Principle #1

The relationship must change as your kids become adults. Move from being the boss to being a mentor and friend. “You are a consultant at their will.” You’re not there to control but to encourage. It’s okay to grieve the change, but don’t let your identity depend on being needed.

Proverbs 22:6

Direct your children onto the right path, and when they are older, they will not leave it.

Principle #2

Only offer advice when asked. Unsolicited input often sounds like criticism. James 1:19 reminds us to be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry. Let your kids make mistakes—they’ll learn more from experience than from lectures.

James 1:19

“Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.”

Winston Churchill: “You will never reach your destination if you stop and throw stones at every dog that barks.”

Keep the long view in mind. Build a new, trusting relationship.

Principle #3

The goal is healthy independence. Adult children need to take ownership of their lives, especially if they’re still living at home. Set clear expectations: be productive, respect house rules, and move toward financial and relational independence with timelines and boundaries.

• Be productive in the home (chores, etc)
• Honor the moral code of the home
• Be financially responsible and set clear goals of where they want to be in a year
• Set deadlines for the arrangement and clear consequences if broken

Principle #4

Be a peacemaker with in-laws and a fun, faith-filled grandparent. Don’t create pressure around holidays or competing family events. Instead, leave a legacy of love, prayer,