loosen the apron strings

loosen the apron strings

To lessen the extent to which someone controls, influences, or monitors someone else, especially parents in relation to their children. Mothers these days are so fussy about their kids, having to know where they are at every second of the day. They would really do well to loosen the apron strings a little, if you ask me! Sending kids to summer camps has been in decline in recent years, as parents have become less and less inclined to loosen the apron strings.
See also: apron, loosen, string
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
See also:
  • apron strings
  • (one) puts (one's) pants on one leg at a time
  • accompany (one) on a/(one's) journey
  • accompany on a journey
  • a stranger to (someone or something)
  • be out of (one's) league
  • be out of somebody's league
  • be in bad with (someone)
  • big spender
  • bargain for (someone or something) with (someone)
References in periodicals archive
Having a mature discussion will give them confidence that you do know your own mind and, hopefully, they'll loosen the apron strings and let you decide what's best for you.
I blame pushy parents for my lack of direction
We in the North need to help the south with its midlife crisis so the south can finally loosen the apron strings and let us develop.
Let's help the south find itself
This summer, loosen the apron strings a bit and give your kids some time off to run around and be, well, kids.
Be Aaefirst aidAAE safe, not sorry
It's time for your boyfriend to loosen the apron strings and insist you get some time together as a couple - even if it means upsetting his mother.
SEX DOCTOR: HIS MUM IS A GOOSEBERRY
Then she can try to persuade your gran to loosen the apron strings - but remember it's her home and her rules.
Joan's juniors: I'm scared I am having a baby after my first time
For her part, Lauren would like Ann to loosen the apron strings but feels her mother is not ready to let her go.
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