Top 2 Family Strains During a Gap Year (and How a Family Agreement Can Help)

Is your teen starting a gap year? Worried about the challenges ahead? Tune into our latest episode to learn how to ease the transition and avoid common pitfalls that lead to family stress and conflict. 

Gap Year Expert, Michelle Dittmer explores how to set expectations, foster independence, and create a family contract that balances freedom and responsibility. Make sure to Download the template and set your teen up for success this year. Let’s make this gap year one of growth—for everyone!

Topics Discussed

• Top 2 Biggest Mistakes: The episode highlights two major mistakes families make during the gap year transition:

1. Not letting go of childhood expectations and behaviours, 
2. Failing to communicate expectations clearly on both sides.

• Independence vs. Responsibility: Michelle discusses the importance of balancing independence with responsibility, ensuring young adults develop the skills they need to thrive after the gap year.
• Family Contract: Access the downloadable family contract template to help set clear expectations and avoid conflicts by aligning both parent and teen goals.
• Communication Tips: Michelle provides practical advice on having open, respectful conversations to ensure everyone is on the same page.

Resources Mentioned In This Episode

• FREE Gap Year Family Contract: https://www.cangap.ca/resources#contract
• Get support to light up your gap year! Book a free 30-min call: https://www.cangap.ca/call