Watching kids move into a college dormitory is a rite of passage that’s welcomed by many parents.
Watching kids move back home after being on their own is becoming nearly as common.
When adult children move back home, it can create a “happy-chaos” moment. Children may feel like their independence suddenly has limits, while parents might find themselves having to create new household routines.
Psychologists encourage parents to set boundaries and avoid overstepping. We would encourage a little prayer so you can learn to relate to them as adults and not the children they were when they left.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7
Here are a few tips, ideas, and boundaries to consider if you have a “boomerang” child.1
Manage expectations: It may sound a bit cliché, but communication is key. For example, 60% of young adults say that their parents never discussed the cost of supporting them—for a second time.
“Person” finances: One study found that 46% of boomerang kids scored an A or B in money management, compared to 63% of kids who never returned home.
Contribution accounts: Whether your boomerang kid should pay rent is a family decision but asking them to contribute to household expenses is an idea to consider. Otherwise, how else will kids learn the costs of certain items, like streaming services or laundry detergent?
Remember, before you know it, they’ll likely be moving out again. So, put yourself in a position to enjoy the time you have together by taking a few proactive steps.
The Bank of Mom & Dad²
The funny thing about the Bank of Mom & Dad—it’s great at processing withdrawals, but most Mom & Dad banks don’t have a way of accepting deposits.
Roughly half of all parents with adult children now provide regular money help to their kids who are age 18+. The average check is about $1,500 a month.2
What are parents paying for? Groceries (83 percent) and cell phones (65 percent), mostly. But some parents are also paying for vacations (46 percent).
What works for one family may not work for another, but one thing is certain: Parents should consider setting boundaries if the financial support becomes too much. Nearly 40% of parents say it causes some emotional stress, while others say they’ve needed to change their own financial goals.
- Forbes.com, July 1, 2025
- Savings.com, March 2025
