If you are a parent of an adult child, especially a recent college grad, you may be challenged to help your kids get on their feet financially – especially in today’s tough job market. While most parents are quick to put their kids’ needs first, it’s only prudent to do so in ways that won’t jeopardize your own retirement funding.

For a little guidance, U.S. News and World Reports offers a list of ways in which you can help support your adult children without also ruining your retirement funds.

1. Budget for any support you plan to provide. Develop a budget to help control your efforts and expenditures. Build in those costs for all stages of support and, crucially, keep it separate from your own retirement funds.

2. Provide non-financial support when possible. For example, invite recent graduates to live with you until they get on their feet. In this way, you can provide critical support without putting too much extra strain on your own budget.

3. Make a plan and tell your kids to have one too. Especially if you are offering non-financial support, you’ll want to be planning with your adult child, and making sure that they have plans on what to do, where to go, how to pay for it, and how long they will remain on your largesse.

4. Instill good financial sense. I know, you’ve been trying to do this since they were small – and hopefully some of your efforts are paying off now. But you can continue to teach good financial habits by displaying them yourself. Set a good example, and hope it rubs off!