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- My son moved home because of the high cost of living and a low-paying, entry-level job. I never got to be an empty nester. (businessinsider.com)
Local Family Navigates the “Boomerang Child” Phenomenon: Challenges and Unexpected Joys of Post-College Life at Home
As many families across the nation face the “empty nest” syndrome, one local parent shares a different reality: welcoming their oldest child back home after college graduation. While their youngest recently embarked on her college journey, this parent found themselves quickly correcting assumptions of an empty home. Their 22-year-old son, fresh out of college, has returned to the family residence, a growing trend often dubbed the “boomerang child” phenomenon.
The decision for the son to move back wasn’t arbitrary. With the high cost of living in our area and typical entry-level salaries, living independently immediately after graduation can be a significant financial hurdle.
The son, who secured a job in the hospitality industry shortly after graduating, is now using this time at home to save for his future, contributing to household expenses and even beginning retirement planning. His long-term goals, including a future with his graduate student girlfriend, underscore the practical wisdom behind this temporary arrangement.
Despite the practical benefits, the transition isn’t without its complexities. The parent acknowledges the potential boredom and loss of freedom for their son, who previously enjoyed the camaraderie and independence of off-campus living.
There’s also the lingering concern about societal perceptions and whether living at home might impede long-term independence, a stark contrast to parental experiences in previous decades. Adjusting to new household dynamics, such as spontaneous plan changes, also requires a degree of flexibility from everyone involved.
Yet, amidst these challenges, the family has discovered unexpected rewards. This bonus time has fostered new connections and rekindled old ones.
The father enjoys having his sports-watching buddy back, while the mother cherishes lunchtime chats with her son on work-from-home days. The presence of their adult son also helps ease the sting of their daughter’s absence, making the household feel less empty.
Ultimately, this family views the current arrangement not as a burden, but as a blessing and a bonus phase in their son’s life. At 22, with a job and a clear plan for his future, he has ample time to launch fully into independent living. For now, the “boomerang child” experience is proving to be a valuable, albeit unexpected, chapter for this local household.