They Graduated… and Moved Back Home
- Joanna Talbot
- Jun 8
- 2 min read
How to Support Your Recent Grad Without Feeling Frustrated or Powerless
Your child’s graduation day was supposed to be the big launch. Cap and gown, cheers, proud photos.
Then came the unexpected: The move back home.
Maybe it was because:
The job market was tougher than expected
They needed time to regroup emotionally
Financial realities caught up
Or they just didn’t know what came next
Whatever the reason, it can feel frustrating or even like a setback — for both of you.
💡 Here’s the truth: Moving back home after college is more common than you think.
Recent data shows that nearly 40% of college grads return home at least temporarily after graduation.
This phase is often called the “launchpad pause” — a time to recover, plan, and build new skills before taking the next big step.
🧠 What’s Happening in Their Brain and Life?
Young adulthood is full of transitions — socially, emotionally, and cognitively.
Moving back home can feel like a step backward, but it’s really a moment of brain reorganization and growth.
Their prefrontal cortex (decision-making center) is still maturing — especially under stress.
They’re learning how to navigate adult relationships with parents as equals.
They’re working through uncertainty about identity, purpose, and independence.
This “pause” is often messy but essential for solid future growth.
❤️ How You Can Support Without Overstepping
It’s easy to get caught in frustration or impatience, but try to:
Set clear boundaries that respect your adult child’s autonomy
Encourage small wins: helping with a resume, networking, or daily routines
Avoid nagging; instead, listen and validate their feelings
Celebrate progress, no matter how small
Offer coaching as a resource to help them find clarity and motivation
🙌 Why Coaching Helps During the “Launchpad Pause”
Coaching offers:
A non-judgmental space for your grad to explore options
Tools for emotional regulation and resilience
Strategies to build confidence and accountability
Guidance to set realistic, personalized goals
Support to bridge the gap from school to career
Our 12-week program specializes in this exact transition — turning uncertainty into momentum.
📞 If your grad moved back home, they’re not alone — and coaching can help.
Book a free parent consult to explore how we support recent grads through this phase.
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