Difficulty: Explorer (Level 1)
It can feel frustrating that your parents won’t allow you to leave your home to see your former neighbours. Understandably, seeing your old friends is important to you. Have your parents explained their reasons for this decision?
It may be helpful to talk to them.
Many parents worry about their children's safety. It might be a good idea to speak to them about when they think you will be ready to go out on your own. You could discuss what skills they want you to have before they are OK with you leaving home by yourself.
Or maybe there is an age when they think you will be ready.
This might not be a rule that your parents will change right away. But talking about expectations can help you know more about when they think you’ll be ready to head out on your own. These rules are usually there to help you learn to be independent slowly and safely.
For now, talk to your parents about other options. For example, can you invite your former neighbours over to your home or schedule an online chat with them?
This can be a chance to get creative and brainstorm different ideas to stay connected with your friends.
This question was answered by Cherrie Chung, a mental health counsellor and psychotherapist at Insight Counselling
