"Help me get along with my adult children"

Whether you want them to just call you back or are longing to repair a rift, our experts share simple ways to cultivate stronger ties with our grown-up kids

Grow closer Pick up pom-poms

When it comes to supporting adult children, consider taking on the role of fan rather than advisor, says psychotherapist Tina Gilbertson. "Trust that you've instilled the values you'd like them to aspire to-somewhere inside them is all you've taught them." In other words, instead of stepping behind the parental pulpit to guide them, have faith that you did a great job and simply cheer them on.

Do more for you

"Whatever parents do to improve themselves tends to improve the relationship with their adult children," says Gilbertson. "If you have abandonment wounds from childhood, for example, you may feel rejected if your kids want space." Be kind to yourself and validate your emotions, because when you grow happier, your relationship with your kids will also flourish.

Connect with humor