Step1
Make sure over the years, that the child develops real life skills. This means they know how to apply for a job, generally how to handle money, how to cook, how to clean, etc. They will be more willing to live independently if they feel confident in taking care of themselves.
Step2
Having job experiences, like after-school or summer jobs prepares the teen for taking on full-time work.
Step3
Have the teen start a savings account specifically for their first place. Help the teen find out how much a deposit is for an apartment and for start up costs for water, electricity, etc. Have them set a goal, so they realize their cash should go into this and not just on trendy clothes and music.
Step4
Throughout the high school years, talk about the future. Say things like, "For now you follow my rules, but once you finish high school and are out on your own, you can set your own rules." Mention it casually, but matter-of-factly, so the teen knows it's expected. Example: "You need to know how to _____ as I won't be doing this for you when you're 18 and living in your own place."
Step5
Make sure they know that after graduation, they will need to pay room-and-board costs at home. When they realize that, then it's an easier step for them to assume those costs elsewhere.
Step6
Make sure they know that after graduation they need to share in the work around the home (shopping, meal preparation, laundry, etc.). Hopefully they already have some chore assignments as they are growing up.
Step7
The chores and financial contributions help them reach the conclusion that it would be easier to live on their own. To speed up this process, have a family meeting. Work out a reasonable timeline for the graduate to find a job, find affordable housing, and then move out.
Authority 
Comments
xtraordinary said
on 7/23/2008 I am going to forward this to a friend of mine who is in a predicament with her recent graduate not making any meaningful contributions around the home...excellent article! 5+ stars!!!
LilacGirl said
on 6/11/2008 These are all good suggestions.
vallain said
on 6/4/2008 Good addition, Ursaminor. It's important to help the teen be successful in their independence or they might end up moving back in later after making a mess of their life.
ursaminor said
on 5/24/2008 It might be a good idea to show the teen how to get financial aid and continue with schooling after leaving home. An independent person tends to get better financial aid than one still living at home. 5 stars.