Listening

Warm Up

Helpful Words and Phrases

Listen and repeat.

  1. head off (somewhere)
    • ex. After lunch, we decided to head off to the park for a relaxing walk.
  2. move out
    • ex. The family had to move out of their old house to live in a different city.
  3. grief
    • ex. She felt deep grief when her pet died.
  4. loneliness
    • ex. Loneliness is hard for many people when they live far from family and friends.
  5. uncertainty
    • ex. Uncertainty about the weather made it hard to plan the outdoor event.

Article

Read the article below and answer your tutor's questions.

Font size

Every fall in the U.S., many young adults head off to college or move out to start a job. This change often brings strong emotions for parents. They may have feelings of grief, loneliness, or sadness. At the same time, they might also feel a new sense of freedom. Experts call this “empty nest syndrome.”

Empty nest syndrome is not a medical illness, but it can affect a parent’s mental and emotional health. The uncertainty about when they will see their children again can make these feelings even harder. To overcome these emotions, experts suggest that parents recognize their emotions and adjust to the new situation. Psychologist Julie Gottman’s advice for parents is to make new friends and join group activities. She said these can decrease feelings of loneliness.

Parents can also try new hobbies like painting, yoga, or singing in a choir. In addition, they might enjoy traveling or joining an exercise class. It may be difficult at first. However, building new routines and hobbies can help parents find happiness again. Experts believe that this time of change can become a positive new chapter in their lives.

This material was based on an article by The Associated Press.

Discussion

Choose a topic and discuss the questions with your tutor.

Empty Nest Syndrome

  • Do you think young adults living away from their parents is a good or a bad idea? Why do you say so? Discuss.
  • In your opinion, how can families remain close when children move out (ex. visit each other, send text messages)? Discuss.
  • In your opinion, what can parents do to manage feelings of grief or loneliness when their children leave? Discuss.

New Chapter in Life

  • What does "a new chapter in life" mean to you? Discuss.
  • Do you think a new chapter in life is usually a good thing or a bad thing? Why? Discuss.
  • What advice would you give to someone starting a new chapter in life? Discuss.