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It is exciting for children when they gain independence and take those first steps to living on their own. Parents can make the transition easier for adult children by offering a few supplies that will come in handy in their new apartment or house.
Children who can afford to move out have gained many of the skills needed to be a responsible adult. Parents can now enjoy setting up children in their own apartment and answering the many questions that come with independent living. What items can kids use when they move out on their own?
Learn more about which items adult children may need when living in their new home and how parents can help their adult child.
A Vacuum and Cleaning Supplies
One of the first things needed when moving is a vacuum. A new living space may be less than spotless and the process of moving will often track in additional dirt and debris. There are many vacuums on the market, but make sure that the one chosen is easy to use and clean out.
Adult children may appreciate bagless vacuums or those designed to pick up pet hair or suited for allergy sufferers. There are many great choices out there—a popular choice is one of the different kinds of Shark Vacuums.
The amount of cleaning supplies a child will need may vary if they are moving out completely on their own or living with a roommate. However, any adult child will need some basic cleaning supplies. How often they use them is another matter.
Parents who want to start off their kids with a good supply may want to include some of the basics such as dishcloths and towels, an all-purpose cleaner, a bucket, broom, mop and garbage bags. Lysol disinfecting wipes are also a handy and easy way to clean off surfaces quickly before company arrives.
A Toolkit
Adult children may need to learn how to perform basic repairs, hang picture frames and put together furniture. A general toolkit may come in handy as they make a new space their own. Consider getting kids a tape measure, flashlight, utility knife, hammer and 4-in-1 screwdriver as part of their initial toolkit.
Most children can use and benefit from a good pair of scissors, pack duct tape or a gift card to add to their kit as needs arise. Home Depot or Lowe’s can be great places to find basic tools and experts to provide additional advice, depending on the skill level of a child. Protecting your kid against pests can be done with some pest control tools and accessories as well—while it’s not too common, having a few mouse traps and insect repellent can never hurt.
Kitchen Supplies and Gadgets
Adult children may need to cook at home from time to time and there are many kitchen items that may come in handy. In addition to standard dishes, utensils and coffee makers, kitchen supplies parents may want to consider include:
- Measuring cups and spoons for home cooks;
- Spice racks to add flavor to basic meals;
- A set of pots and pans; and
- A toaster or microwave oven.
Parents should have an idea of how self-sufficient their child is in the kitchen. Use this information as a basis from which to decide on which supplies may best suit a child’s needs. In addition, parents who are on Pinterest may take a look at the cool and funky designed kitchen supplies now available. A pink kitchen knife set and skull kitchen set are only a few of the fun items on the site.
Adult children into healthy eating or with children of their own may appreciate some of the following ideas:
- The Nutri Ninja Pro for smoothies and vegetable juices;
- A Brieftons NextGen Spiralizer for healthier “spaghetti” options; and
- An iPad mount such as MagBak to attach a tablet to any metal surface.
The mount helps secure tablets to keep little ones entertained or to follow a recipe in the kitchen. Many great ideas and gadgets are transforming the kitchen environment and making it easier to cook and entertain.
An Extra Set of Hands
Kids may need the experience of a parent to hang up photographs, put together new furniture or help move large furniture items. Parents can be available when needed to step in and assist. Some children want their family to help out with physically moving items. Others may only need parents to answer a few questions or help locate an affordable moving company. It is good for an adult child to become more independent but that does not mean that they will not require the sound advice of mom or dad from time to time.
Continue to Stay in Touch
Adult kids can be excited in the first few days and after kids get settled in to their new place, they may get preoccupied with their new lifestyle. This may mean fewer calls to beloved parents. Parents can always feel free to send a text, email or pick up the phone to say a quick hello or talk about important matters. Children may have new questions as they maintain and make repairs in their new home and may benefit from the experiences of their parents.
