The kids not calling often

[cherie]

My nephew starting living on his own about 5 months ago and initially, he would talk to all of us on phone frequently. Nowadays, he rarely calls and doesn't easily answer his phone. His mother once joked that he must have found someone who's keeping him busy (perhaps a girlfriend?). I was wondering if this something that happens when kids start living on their own? 

[Peyton45]

I think this is pretty common once our children start living on their own. Life really opens up for them and they become so busy that they don't always have the time to stop and talk. I'm sure he'll come around when things to start to slow down or if he needs help with something.

[GrownChildMother]

When my son and his girlfriend first moved out on their own, I heard from them maybe twice a week. Now that they are married and have been out on their own for a few years, I talk to them several times a day. However, this is usually though social media or by text.

[cherie]

When my son and his girlfriend first moved out on their own, I heard from them maybe twice a week. Now that they are married and have been out on their own for a few years, I talk to them several times a day. However, this is usually though social media or by text.

It's much better this way, that is if at some point the kids start communicating frequently. I always tell his mum to let him be; he will start communicating at some point but I guess some things are easier said than done.

[XandO]

I think that it depends on the individual pertaining to frequency of contact. As a rule, though, I would go along with the fact that your nephew has indeed found some new outlet for his attention, and is in no way ignoring you or is miffed at anything about your relationship with him. Wait for awhile, and if you don't hear from him, then, you can call him to see what's up.

[Lyndish]

Do you remember what it was like when you first moved out on your own, especially going to college? There was a new job and new people, and trying to manage your own laundry and food, and the noisy neighbour, and all the paperwork like bills and rent that can be a very nasty shock.

After five months he will have created a routine and now be making friends, getting things settled and generally building a life for himself. Give it a few years and once he has settled down and gone through all the upheaval he will probably be in touch much more often.

If he doesn't answer the phone, could you try something like email or Facebook where he can answer your message when it is convenient? He might not always be in places where he can answer a phone, or not get good reception.