5 Tips Empty Nesters Really Want Young Parents To Know

The stories our parents are always telling us are made up of hazy memories of something my husband or one of his siblings did as a child, an old story about something I did when I was young. I love hearing these stories, but they also make me a bit sad.  In the back of my mind, I can't help but feel sad at the thought that one day I'll be the one recounting old stories to my adult children.

What if I don't remember all the important things? What if I forget this? When you're in the trenches of parenting little ones, it's not always easy to step back and think Don't forget that!

To help you out, Huffington Post has partnered with some empty nesters.

So, from those who have come before us, here's what you'll really want to remember:

1. Get to know their friends.
“Encourage them to have their friends to your house. You learn more about your kids from whom they befriend than anything else. Be non-judgmental and open to discussion about anything so when they are away they won't feel like anything is off limits to discuss with you if they need to.” — L.S.

My mom always did this and it made a huge difference.  I intend to follow her example.  I met my husband in high school, we didn't date at first but my mom says she always knew we would be married one day. She knew my friends and it helped keep me safe.

2. Have family dinners often and make them a priority.
“The dinner table is a place for sharing all that's important with unconditional love, respect and openness to discussing ideas. Make it a safe place to be heard and not judged.” — J.C.

This is something my husband and I don't compromise on. We love that brief time around the table together each night.  Growing up, we often skipped family dinners or ate in front of the TV and that makes me sad. I'm glad to be able to make this a priority for my children.

3. At the end of every year, sit down with your child and write down their memories of the past 12 months.
“When they turn 18, get those pieces of paper out and look back on all that's happened.” — K.P.

I love this idea! I can't wait to start making a list with my children. It's so special and heartwarming to hear the year's events through their eyes.

4. Listen from the front seat when they sit in the back.
“Don't comment. You will learn more about their daily lives when you are chauffeuring them back and forth to activities than you can imagine.” — A.T.

This is my favorite part of being in the car with kids! I love listening to my son sing, play pretend, and ask a million questions. He is hilarious!

5. If your kid tells you a secret, and asks you not to tell anyone, don't.
“If you tell your girlfriends, it will get back to them. It really will.” — K.L.

Trust is so important. I hope I always remember to keep their secrets. I'm going to work really hard on this one.

Need to know what else made the list?  Check out all the things empty nesters want you to know at Huffington Post. Then, share your own ideas for the list in the comment section below.