Parenting Adult Children: Navigating the Transition with Connection and Confidence

Parenting doesn’t end when your children become adults, but the challenges often change. This workshop is designed for parents of adult children ages 19–29 who want to build stronger, more connected relationships while supporting their children’s independence.

Through a practical, supportive framework, participants will explore typical patterns of family development, common challenges that arise as children transition into adulthood, and strategies for communicating effectively and maintaining healthy boundaries. This workshop focuses on general guidance for parenting adult children and does not cover specific issues such as mental health concerns or estrangement.

Participants will leave with practical tools and insights to strengthen their relationships, navigate common conflicts, and foster connection while respecting autonomy.

Learning Objectives:

By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:

• Understand key factors that influence relationships with adult children, including developmental and relational changes.
• Identify common challenges parents face as their children transition to adulthood.
• Apply five practical guidelines to promote healthy, respectful, and supportive interactions with adult children.

Who Should Attend:

Parents of adult children ages 19–29 who want to navigate the transition to adulthood with greater confidence, understanding, and connection.

Meet Dr. Zina Rutkin:

Dr. Zina Rutkin, CKCC’s Director, holds a master’s degree in special education from Lesley College, a doctoral degree in clinical psychology from Case Western Reserve University, and a certificate in Family Studies from Minuchin Center for the Family. Dr. Rutkin worked closely with the late Dr. Marcia Stern, CKCC’s founder, in the early program developmental stages of CKCC. Dr. Rutkin began her career as a special educator, and then became a clinical psychologist with a strong background in program evaluation as well as mental health. She has served as a consultant to a variety of mental health organizations, social service agencies, and school settings throughout the New York area, and also as an adjunct professor at NYU. Dr. Rutkin has over thirty years experience working with, and on behalf of, children and families, with a particular eye toward the interface between education and mental health, and the development of foundational skills leading to success in learning and in life.