Hi @Jojobatty ,    You sound like a really caring, considerate and concerned mum. Please let us know how you go chatting to parentline, we would love to hear how things progress with your son. Helping ourselves, and our kids, navigate the challenges that come as they approach adulthood, and become more independent, is definitely a 'new' stage of parenting I think. It's something that we hear about a lot from parents of teenage kids - it's definitely not something that can happen overnight (just like they don't suddenly become responsible adults overnight!)   I hear your concern about your son feeling smothered - I think if you can keep the communication between you open, respectful and honest, you'll be on the right track.  It sounds like you're doing a great job already :)      ... View more