10 Things You Should Have Ready for Your Adult Children to Support Their Independence and Growth
Helping your adult children thrive means thinking ahead and preparing for practical needs that might arise. Taking care of these essentials can smooth out challenges and foster confidence for everyone involved.
Updated health insurance information
Ensure your adult children have your current health insurance details. This includes the provider’s name, policy number, and emergency contact information.
If they need medical care or bills arise, having this information handy can save time and stress. Update them on any recent changes in coverage or benefits.
Let your children know if prior approval is required for certain treatments. Keeping insurance info organized gives them a clear starting point if they must handle health-related decisions for you.
Copy of will and estate plan
Have a clear, updated copy of your will and estate plan ready. This helps your adult children understand your wishes and reduces confusion during difficult times.
Store these documents in an easy-to-find location, either physically or digitally. Let your children know where they are kept.
Review your will and estate plan regularly. Updates may be needed as life circumstances or laws change.
Emergency contact list
Keep an up-to-date list of emergency contacts for your adult children. Include close family, trusted friends, and healthcare providers.
List phone numbers, email addresses, and any important notes, such as who to call if you’re unreachable.
Share both a digital copy and a printed version for convenience. Update the list regularly to keep the information current.
Important passwords and account info
Make a list of essential passwords and login details for email, banking, social media, and subscription accounts. Store this information securely, such as in a locked drawer or a password manager.
Share instructions on how to access these safely. Update the list regularly to keep everything accurate.
Durable power of attorney document
A durable power of attorney lets your adult children make important decisions for you if you become unable to do so. It covers financial matters, legal issues, and sometimes healthcare choices.
Choose someone you trust to handle these responsibilities. Discuss your wishes clearly with your children before setting up the document.
List of financial advisors
Prepare a list of trusted financial advisors for your adult children. These professionals can help manage investments, plan for retirement, and handle taxes.
Include contact information and a brief note on each advisor’s specialties. Choose advisors who explain things clearly to help your children make informed decisions.
Home maintenance schedule
Create a clear home maintenance schedule for your adult children. List important tasks like changing air filters, checking smoke detectors, and cleaning gutters.
Provide estimated timelines for each job. Add useful tips or reliable service contacts for bigger repairs.
Personal keepsake box
Put together a personal keepsake box with meaningful items your adult children can cherish. Include photos, letters, or small mementos from their childhood.
Choose a sturdy, attractive box and label it clearly. This offers a tangible connection to family memories.
Educational transcripts and certificates
Have copies of your children’s educational transcripts and certificates ready. These documents may be needed for job applications or further education.
Keep both digital and physical copies organized. If records are missing, help your children request replacements from their schools.
Subscription details for streaming services
If your adult children use streaming services you pay for, make sure they have access to the accounts. This could include Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, or other platforms.
Keep a list of usernames, passwords, and billing information in a secure place. That way, they can continue watching their favorite shows without interruption.
For family plans or shared subscriptions, clarify how and when payments will transfer to them. This helps ensure seamless access.
Add notes about any special preferences or profiles they may want to keep. This can make the transition smoother when they take over the subscriptions.
