How parents can help their child launch in the world. The Wonder Room

Ask Rachel anything When your child is 12 and struggling, people might rally round. When they’re 19 and stuck in their bedroom, it can feel lonelier, and often more shameful, than it should. This week in the Wonder Room, I’m joined again by teacher, author and mother of two Katharine Radice to unpick my conversation with family therapist Thomas Miller on young adults who fail to launch. We talk about why “get a good job” is a brittle value and “value hard work” is a durable one, and why that difference matters so much. We get into the difference between pressure and urgency, why no job is beneath anyone starting out, and how the sheer volume of AI-written applications are making genuine, human ones, stand out. We also share three simple questions that help teens and young adults notice what’s doing them good, who they can learn from, and how to build their own network. If you’re worried about a young adult who seems stuck, this one’s for you. Situated by Angela Duckworth The Disengaged Teen by Jennie Anderson and Dr Rebecca Winthrop Thank You for Being Late, by Thomas Friedman Episodes: How part time jobs still make a massive difference Using mentors to change your life with Mitchell Osmond Failing to Launch with Thomas Miller Sleep/wake routine advice Ken Rabow Helping more complex kids with ADHD and other differences Elaine Taylor-Klaus Listen to my conversation with Thomas Miller and this Wonder Room with Katharine Radice on Teenagers Untangled. And if a friend is having a wobble about this right now, send it their way. Support the show Please hit the follow button if you like the podcast, and share it with anyone who might benefit.  You can review us on Apple podcasts by going to the show page, scrolling down to the bottom where you can click on a star then you can leave your message.  Please don't hesitate to seek the advice of a specialist if you're not coping. There's no shame in reaching out for support. When you look after yourself your entire family benefits. Find all the tips from the episode on Substack:  My email [email protected] My website has a blog, searchable episodes, and ways to contact me Instagram Facebook