My kids didn't become independent overnight. It took me years of not hovering.

The author's kids have all moved to big cities. Courtesy of the author

My kids moved to big cities, but I'm not worried about their safety.

I focused on teaching independence and awareness from a young age.

That preparation now gives me confidence and trust in their decisions.

When my son moved to New York City five years ago, many people reacted with concern.

"Aren't you worried?" People asked. "I don't think I could handle that."

Now my daughter recently moved to Chicago , and I'm hearing it all over again.

Here's the truth — I'm not calm because nothing can happen. I'm calm because I spent years preparing them for real life instead of shielding them from it.

Independence didn't start when they moved out

My kids didn't suddenly become independent adults the day they left home.…