Every child has an adult hidden inside him or her. An adult who wants to be independent, make decisions on his own, drive a car, work in good company, enjoy weekends with friends etc. It’s just that children don’t know where, when and how to start.
Parents are the first teachers, and you can teach your children the most important life skills step by step, with your constant effort and patient support.
- Basic Hygiene
Children should learn how to keep themselves clean and tidy. Parents should help them brush their teeth, teach them how to dress up neatly and keep their rooms clean once they are awake. Help them develop routines to lead a better life as adults.
2. First Aid
When met with an accident, children should know how to take care of themselves before seeking help. Giving first aid training is a fantastic way to nurture a caring attitude in children. During an emergency, it will become handy for people around them too.
3. Time management
With adults around, children barely realise the value of time. Let them make a checklist for everything they should do in a day. When they realise that some tasks are still pending at the end of the day, they will derive a better way to get things done the next time.
4. Home Chores
Children may think home chores are purely adults’ responsibility when they are not given any. Give them doable chores, and as they grow into responsible adults, they will lead a better life.
5. Simple Cooking
The kitchen is one area children usually love to explore. So why not give them the wok and ladle and just get them to cook what they want? Instruct the procedures or let them check out a recipe on YouTube. Involve when they need your help, and remember to give them a pat on the back when done.
6. Decision Making
Leaving children alone will make them think. While at school or play, let them learn to handle situations. Correct them only if their decisions go wrong. When they do a good job, do let them know.
7. Self Defence
Self-defence tactics build your child’s confidence. Parents should try to include this as their extracurricular activity. It gives them a feeling of security and courage during their growing up years.
8. Communication
Generally, children are shy or scared to talk to strangers. Teach them words to use, ways to behave and observe their communication. Let them not be afraid of strangers but teach them when and how to handle situations through kind or firm words when parents are not around.
9. Travelling
Allow children to get their tickets while on a bus or metro. In the absence of their parents, this will help them move around confidently, manage time and money. A great idea to kill three birds with one stone!
10. Manage Money
When you go to a grocery store, take your children along. Give them clear instructions to pick items for the home. You can also give them money just enough for candy or snacks and make them pay at the cash counter, so they do not hesitate to manage cash and deal with strangers.