Milestones don’t stop just because your child is getting older. In fact, you might be surprised by how many new ‘firsts’ are still ahead. The first sleepover. The first school camp. The first solo walk to school. And with every milestone comes that familiar mix of nerves and pride, alongside a shared determination to help your child’s independence and help them take the next step with confidence – and to grow right alongside them.
For millions of Aussie families, the start of the year is all about preparing for what’s to come and getting ready for those new experiences. And if you’re feeling a bit wobbly about it all, you’re definitely not alone.
Whether it’s your 10-year-old walking to school solo for the first time, your teenager catching public transport across town, or your almost-adult getting behind the wheel, these moments of growing independence can feel monumental. One minute they’re asking you to cut their sandwiches into triangles (no crust!), the next they’re managing their own money and organising their own social calendar.
Recent research from Life360 shows just how common these big leaps are, with more than half of Aussie kids trying something significant and new this school year – from navigating their own way to school to heading to a friend’s place solo after class.
And honestly? Most parents are feeling a complex tangle of emotions about it. There’s the pride (they’re growing up!), the excitement (they’re ready for this!), and yes, the worry (but are they really ready for this?).
Here’s the thing: supporting independence doesn’t mean stepping back entirely. It means finding that sweet spot between giving kids the freedom to learn and grow, while still being there when they need you.
Open conversations make a huge difference. Talking through expectations, practicing scenarios together, and making sure your child knows they can always reach out – these things build confidence on both sides. It’s less about bubble-wrapping them against every possible mishap and more about equipping them with the tools to handle whatever comes their way.
For many families, technology has become part of that toolkit. Location sharing apps have quietly become the modern version of “call me when you get there” – except nobody has to remember to make the call.
Apps such as Life360 work in the background, sending a simple notification when your child arrives safely at school or practice. No need to text “Are you there yet?” five times. No need for your teenager to feel like you’re hovering (or checking up on them). Just a quick, automatic check-in that gives everyone peace of mind.
The Place Alerts feature is particularly helpful for those first few weeks of a new routine – when your Year 7 is navigating high school drop-off zones or your teen is finding their way to a new weekend job. You can set up Places such as home, school or work, and receive a notification when they arrive or leave. They get their independence; you get to breathe a little easier – without the need for constant check-in texts.
Because that’s really what this stage is about: growing together. Your child is learning to navigate the world with more autonomy, and you’re learning to trust the foundation you’ve built. It’s not always comfortable, but it’s exactly what’s supposed to happen.
Download Life360 for free today, the app making everyday family life better.
