Imagine your adult child calls you after a long week, and instead of offering advice, you say, “I’m proud of how you handled that.”

How would they feel? Likely, they’d appreciate your support without judgment.

Now picture saying, “I trust your decisions.” These affirmations can reinforce a sense of autonomy while maintaining emotional closeness.

By using these empowering phrases, you’re not only validating their growth but also solidifying a relationship built on mutual respect.

Interested to learn more?

Let’s dive in:

1) “I’m proud of you”

Maintaining a close relationship with your adult children often comes down to expressing your love and admiration for them.

And this isn’t just about saying “I love you”, it’s about showing them how much their achievements mean to you.

“I’m proud of you” is a phrase that can bridge the gap between parent and child. It’s a message that communicates respect, admiration, and validation.

It’s the verbal equivalent of giving your child a pat on the back, acknowledging their efforts and successes.

But just like with any phrase, honesty is vital. Say it when you truly mean it, and let it come from a place of genuine pride.

In doing so, you’ll reinforce your bond without encroaching on their independence.

2) “I trust your judgment”

Trust is the cornerstone of any relationship, and this is especially true between parents and their adult children.

One phrase that’s been incredibly powerful in my relationship with my own adult son is “I trust your judgment”.

For example, when he was deciding whether to take a high-risk job opportunity overseas, I resisted the urge to steer him towards what I thought was best. Instead, I told him, “I trust your judgment”.

This didn’t mean I didn’t have my own anxieties or opinions. But saying that phrase showed him that I believed in his ability to make the right decision for himself.

And it turned out, he did. He took the job, thrived in it, and learned a lot about himself in the process.

My trust in his judgment not only made him feel more confident in his decision but also strengthened our relationship.

Using this phrase sincerely can reassure your adult children that you respect their autonomy and believe in their decision-making abilities.

3) “I learn from you”

Communication in a parent-child relationship shouldn’t be a one-way street. As parents, we can learn a lot from our adult children, and it’s important to acknowledge that.

“I learn from you” is a phrase that can flip the traditional parent-child dynamic on its head. It shows respect for their perspectives and experiences, and fosters mutual understanding and growth.

Research has shown that intergenerational learning – where knowledge is shared between generations – has numerous benefits, including strengthening relationships, enhancing empathy, and even boosting mental health.

By expressing to your adult children that you value what they bring to your life intellectually and emotionally, you’re reinforcing the value of your relationship and fostering mutual respect.

4) “I’m here for you”

Even as our children grow, they still need to know that they have a safety net, someone who will be there for them in times of need.

“I’m here for you” is a phrase that can provide immense comfort and assurance. It’s a promise of emotional support and availability, regardless of the circumstances.

Use this phrase to reassure your adult children that even though they’re navigating life on their own, they’re not alone.

They have you as a source of comfort, advice, or simply a listening ear whenever they need it.

This phrase isn’t about solving their problems for them. It’s about providing a safe space where they feel heard and understood.

And sometimes, that’s what we all need the most.

5) “I appreciate you”

As parents, we often focus on guiding and teaching our children that we sometimes forget to simply appreciate them for who they are.

“I appreciate you” is a heartfelt phrase that goes beyond surface-level compliments.

It’s an acknowledgment of their character, their kindness, their unique qualities that make them who they are.

Using this phrase helps create a warm and nurturing relationship.

It’s a reminder to your adult children that they are seen and valued, not just for what they achieve, but for the wonderful individuals they’ve become.

It’s a small phrase with a big impact.

So the next time you’re in conversation with your adult child, remind them how much you appreciate them. It might just make their day.

6) “I was wrong”

We all make mistakes, and parents are no exception. In my early years of parenting, I mistakenly thought admitting my mistakes would undermine my authority.

But one day, after a heated argument with my daughter about her career choices, I realized I’d let my own fears cloud my judgment. I’d pushed too hard and hadn’t respected her viewpoint.

Taking a deep breath, I sat down with her and said, “I was wrong”. It wasn’t easy to admit, but it was necessary.

“I was wrong” is a phrase that can heal rifts and foster mutual respect.

It shows your adult children that you’re human, you make mistakes, and you’re willing to own up to them.

7) “I understand your perspective”

As parents, we can sometimes get so caught up in our own viewpoints that we forget to truly listen to our children’s perspectives.

“I understand your perspective” is a phrase that can bridge this gap. It doesn’t mean you have to agree with them on everything.

But it does mean that you’re willing to listen, to understand, and to validate their thoughts and feelings.

This phrase sends a clear message: their voice matters.

It tells them that even if you have differing opinions, you still respect their viewpoint.

8) “I love you, just the way you are”

Love is the foundation of a parent-child relationship. It’s not about conditions or expectations but about acceptance and unconditional support.

“I love you, just the way you are” is a phrase that encapsulates this sentiment.

It’s an affirmation that their worth doesn’t depend on their achievements, their choices, or their ability to meet your expectations.

Expressing this love openly and sincerely can create a deep emotional connection that lasts a lifetime.

It’s a constant reminder to your adult children that they are loved for their authentic selves.

This is perhaps the most powerful phrase you can use to maintain a close relationship with your adult children.

No matter where life takes them, it reaffirms that they will always have your unconditional love and acceptance.

Final thoughts: It’s all about connection

The essence of a parent-child relationship transcends the boundaries of age and time. It’s a bond that can be nurtured and strengthened, regardless of the distance and differences that may arise.

These phrases hold a profound power to shape the relationship with your adult children, to assure them they are seen, heard, and loved unconditionally.

So remember, as parents, your words carry weight. Use them wisely and lovingly to maintain a close relationship with your adult children.

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