You Are Your Teen’s Greatest Teacher
March marks the final stretch of the school year and the anticipation of graduation for our seniors, 8th graders, 5th graders, and preschoolers. As Spring Fever sets in, walk down the halls of any school, and you will hear, "This is going to prepare you for......"
As teachers employ strategies to prepare students for their future endeavors, they use predetermined education standards and curricula. As parents, we aren't working off state guidelines or education experts' knowledge because we are preparing them for life.
Riffing off the tagline from my podcast, "There's no manual for the hardest job in the world." Our ultimate job is to work ourselves out of a job. And you know what? It's never too early to start instilling these life skills.
From the moment they enter this world, we become their first teachers, teaching them the basics of life. So how can we support their teens as they prepare to launch from high school to college, the workforce, or other post-graduation paths?
Let's dive into this role with love, patience, honor, joy, and playfulness.
1. Financial Management
Imagine this: You're at Starbucks, and your teen's eyes light up at their favorite Venti Caramel Frappa Mocha Matcha Soy Latte - Lots-a-Whip.
It's the perfect moment to introduce them to budgeting! Start by involving your teen in family budget discussions. Show them how to track expenses and set savings goals using real-life examples, like planning a family vacation or saving for a car.
Get them to manage their allowance or part-time job earnings, and maybe share a laugh about your budgeting mishaps along the way. Encourage them to open a bank account and manage their earnings responsibly, demonstrating how to pay bills on time and save for the future.
2. Basic Life Skills
I always say if a child can play a video game, they can run a dishwasher or a washing machine.
Use everyday opportunities - teach practical skills and share quality time. Make it fun, play music, share stories, and show them the ropes. Cook together, teaching them simple recipes and kitchen safety. Show them how to do laundry, tidy up their living space, and perform basic household repairs.
Remember, it's OK if they stumble along the way. Patience and encouragement go a long way in fostering their confidence to tackle new challenges. You might even discover their hidden laundry origami talent or fantastic knife skills.
3. Healthcare Basics
Show them the ropes by navigating the healthcare system together. Teach them how to make doctor's appointments, fill out insurance forms, and handle medical emergencies. Role-play scenarios where they have to explain their symptoms to a healthcare professional.
And to ease any nerves, maybe throw in a funny accent or two to lighten the mood. Share personal anecdotes to demystify the process and reassure them that asking questions is OK.
My clients have shared stories about feeling nervous when speaking with doctors because they were confused by all the names of the medications, and they couldn't remember which one was which.
4. Safety and Emergency Preparedness
Spend time discussing safety protocols for various situations, such as fire drills or what to do in a medical emergency. Practice basic first aid skills together. Ensure your child knows how to access emergency services if needed.
Equipping them with these life-saving skills gives them the confidence to handle unexpected challenges with calm and composure. I've been teaching my kids how acetaminophen and ibuprofen work in the body - what the differences are - and what the dosing is.
5. Time Management
Help them develop time management skills by creating schedules and setting realistic goals. If they juggle school, extracurricular activities, and a part-time job, encourage them to prioritize tasks and delegate when necessary.
Use planners or calendar apps and reminders to organize their commitments and deadlines. Encourage them to notice and celebrate themselves when they can stay organized and on top of things because it feels good to be in control of their own time.
This intrinsic motivation will encourage them to repeat that behavior and take ownership of their schedules.
6. Transportation Skills
If you've had the "pleasure" of teaching your teen to drive, you know it's nerve-wracking.
If your teen already knows how to drive, it might be time to broaden their transportation horizons and explore new travel-related skills.
If public transportation is more their speed, accompany them on practice trips until they feel comfortable navigating independently. From mastering subway routes to booking their first solo flight, encourage them to plan and execute trips independently, gradually building their confidence to explore the world with independence and self-assurance.
7. Problem-Solving and Decision-Making
If you've had the "pleasure" of teaching your teen to drive, you know it's nerve-wracking.
If your teen already knows how to drive, it might be time to broaden their transportation horizons and explore new travel-related skills.
If public transportation is more their speed, accompany them on practice trips until they feel comfortable navigating independently. From mastering subway routes to booking their first solo flight, encourage them to plan and execute trips independently, gradually building their confidence to explore the world with independence and self-assurance.
8. Communication Skills
Practice active listening and assertive communication techniques with your teen, highlighting the importance of expressing thoughts and feelings respectfully.
Have you ever tried teaching your teen how to write a professional email? Craft emails together, maybe even share a funny story about a typo mishap—it'll make for a great laugh and a memorable lesson in communication etiquette.
Encourage your teen to practice writing professional emails and speaking confidently in various social and professional settings. These skills will serve them well as they navigate the complexities of the adult world.
9. Emotional Well-being
Laughter is often the best medicine for mental health. Share funny stories, watch movies, or have impromptu dance parties. Prioritize open and honest conversations about emotions and coping strategies.
Remind them it's OK not to be OK sometimes, and you're always there to listen. Model self-care practices and assure them that it's OK to ask for help if and when they need your support or that of a professional.
By nurturing their emotional resilience and fostering a culture of seeking assistance when necessary, you're equipping them with the tools to thrive in all aspects of life.
10. Good Citizenship and Good Character
Instilling good character and fostering a sense of citizenship is essential for our teens as they prepare to navigate the world independently. Teach them the importance of integrity, kindness, and empathy in their interactions.
Encourage your teen to spread kindness everywhere they go—holding doors open, volunteering, or simply lending an ear to a friend in need. Their acts of kindness might inspire others.
Additionally, discuss the values of honesty, responsibility, and respect for others as foundational principles for being a good citizen and member of society. Encourage them to contribute positively to their community by volunteering, helping those in need, and advocating for social justice.
11. Legal Rights and Responsibilities
By providing practical knowledge about these legal topics, you're empowering your teen to navigate the complexities of the legal system and make informed decisions in various aspects of their lives.
Essential legal issues that every teen should know:
Tenant Rights - lease agreements, security deposits, and procedures for addressing maintenance issues.
Employment Laws - fair treatment, reporting workplace harassment or discrimination, and understanding employment contracts.
Contract Agreements - rental agreements, cell phone contracts, and employment contracts.
Criminal Law - behaviors that constitute crimes and their potential consequences, such as theft, vandalism, assault, and drug-related offenses.
Alcohol and Drug Laws - possession, consumption, and distribution of alcohol and drugs. This includes the legal drinking age, restrictions on purchasing alcohol and tobacco products, and the legal consequences of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Traffic Laws - consequences of traffic violations, such as speeding tickets or license suspension, are also essential.
Civil Rights and Discrimination Laws - including protections against discrimination based on race, gender, religion, disability, and other characteristics.
Conclusion
By integrating these 11 skills into our teachings, we prepare our teens for independence and empower them to be responsible, compassionate, and engaged members of their communities. Remember, you are your teen's greatest teacher, and with love, patience, and guidance, you can help them navigate this journey with confidence and integrity.
And remember, you are not alone on this journey. For guidance and encouragement, lean on fellow parents, mentors, and supportive communities. Together, we can empower our teens to spread their wings and soar. Ultimately, it's not just about preparing them for the world—it's about showing them, they can conquer anything that comes their way.