Additional Coverage:
- My high-school senior moved in with my 77-year-old mom. The unconventional arrangement has benefited all of us. (businessinsider.com)
Teen Finds Independence, Helps Grandma, and Makes Mom Happy: A Win-Win-Win Living Situation
Denver’s soaring housing costs forced one family to think outside the box when their teenage son needed more space and independence. The solution? Moving in with grandma!
This unconventional arrangement has proven a surprising success. The son, a high school senior, enjoys a spacious living area in his grandmother’s finished basement, complete with a private bathroom.
He’s gaining valuable life skills by contributing to household chores, cooking dinner several times a week, and managing his own schedule. Best of all, he’s saving money by avoiding rent, a major plus in pricey Denver.
Grandma benefits too, enjoying her grandson’s company and appreciating the extra help around the house. The added bonus? A built-in dinner companion a few nights a week.
Mom reports a much-improved relationship with her son. With clear boundaries in place, nagging about homework and chores is a thing of the past. She’s also seen a newfound maturity in her son, who has confidently navigated important decisions about his future, including plans for college.
This unique living situation has also brought an unexpected perk for the younger sister, who now enjoys the luxury of a bedroom all to herself.
This family’s experience highlights the potential benefits of considering alternative living arrangements for older teens. It’s a win-win-win: Grandma gets help and companionship, the son gains independence and maturity, and Mom enjoys a stronger relationship with her son and a more peaceful home.