Your kid is bound to move out one day. By teaching him or her the basics of life, you can let them leave knowing they’ll be fine.
1. Credit Management
Your kid will apply for a credit card at some point. Point out that the best practice is to pay it off each month.
2. Emergency Funding
A general rule of thumb is to have $1,000 in a savings account for emergencies. This isn’t for a rainy day and should be replaced as fast as possible when used.
3. Abusive Relationships
According to the Nemours Foundation, about 1 in 11 teenagers are hurt by their partners. Tell your kid the signs of having an abusive boyfriend or girlfriend.
4. Sexual Responsibility
Most kids know the details of sex education before leaving home. Still, give junior a refresher and a reminder that you’re always there if a mishap occurs.
5. Laundry
If your kid doesn’t know how to do laundry, teach him or her. Some clothing can be ruined by improper washing or drying.
6. Shopping
Knowing how to shop isn’t an innate skill. Teach your kid how to buy produce in bulk and where to find cheap furniture and home decor.
7. Conflict Resolution
The Human Resource Development department of the UNW stresses that conflict is normal. But you’ll need to teach a child that fixing a problem can take great courage.
8. Cooking
Studies show that less than half of American meals include any fresh food. Teach your kid how to cook to help him or her save money and be healthy.
9. Alcohol
The number one cause of death among people aged 15-20 is car crashes. About 30% of teenagers who die in car crashes are under the influence of alcohol. Do your best to advise kids to drink responsibly.
10. Home Maintenance
Everyone should know the do’s and dont’s of unclogging a toilet, sink, or shower.
11. Drug Abuse
Give your kids the facts on drug abuse. Don’t exaggerate and lose their trust, though.
12. Exercise
Exercise is important to maintaining a healthy lifestyle and even being mentally sound.
13. Car Maintenance
For their safety, point out that car maintenance isn’t optional. Bald tires, squeaky brakes, and cracked windshields are dangerous.
14. Cleaning
Teach kids the basics of cleaning to curb the
15. Furniture Restoration
Some people develop restoration talents after living in a ratty dorm for months.
16. Skin Care
Severe acne and too-oily skin can easily persist into a person’s late 20s or early 30s. Teach your kid how to treat their skin with kindness.
17. Medical Care
Stress the importance of seeing a doctor on a regular basis. Some people have died from seemingly minor oral infections.
18. Stress Management
Between managing money and trying to pass college courses, your kid has a lot to worry about. Teach him or her how to manage that stress for a healthier life.
19. Law
Being ignorant of the law isn’t an excuse to break it.
20. Lawn Care
Many people don’t even know the basics of lawn care; don’t let your kids be among them.
21. General Addiction
Studies show that people can become addicted to anything. Let your kid know when and how to seek help.
22. Career
Teach your kid the importance of having a career they enjoy.
23. Debt Management
If your child learned credit and money management the hard way, it’s good to know how to manage debt.
24. Telemarketers
In some countries, it’s illegal for telemarketers to call.
25. Home Appliance Repair
Does your child know how to fix a clogged vacuum cleaner or will he have to pay a professional handyman to fix it for him?
26. Couponing
You can take or leave couponing, but learning this skill can save your kid thousands over his or her lifetime.
27. Investing
Smart investing can ensure your child, grandchildren, and great grandchildren are financially set.
28. Friendships
Life is easier when your children have good friends to back them.
29. Decorating
People are happier in spaces that are pleasing to the eye.
30. Manners
Lastly, teach your kid the importance of please, thank you, and generally being socially kind.
