Raising capable adults is a goal shared by many parents. However, kids often don’t realize that tasks like chores and added responsibilities are meant to benefit them. Just the other day, after I asked my son for a simple favor, he started to argue. I reminded him that I brought him into this world, to which he retorted, “I never asked to be born.”
Navigating the journey of parenting can be tricky, but here are five strategies I’ve found helpful in preparing my kids for the real world:
1. Cooking Skills
While I enjoy cooking family dinners, I also want my children to be comfortable in the kitchen. They can request meals, and I’m happy to oblige. However, breakfast, lunch, and snacks are their responsibility. Recently, my oldest texted me from his room, asking for nachos while chatting online with friends. Let’s just say that was the last time he asks me for a snack unless he’s really sick or injured.
2. Chores
Assigning chores is essential; it combats boredom, helps me manage their sassiness, and teaches them valuable life skills. They might jokingly call it “Mom’s Servants Club,” but I don’t mind as long as the laundry gets folded and the dog mess is cleaned up.
3. Gentle Reminders
If my kids are a bit smelly and need a shower, I’ll mention it once. If they choose to ignore me, that’s on them. As they grow older, I’ve reduced my reminders; they need to learn responsibility on their own. If my 12-year-old wants to leave the house without a coat in freezing weather, that’s his choice. I’m not here to be their secretary!
4. Encouraging Independence
When they struggle with schoolwork, I try to help, but I don’t intervene with their teachers anymore. If they need assistance, I encourage them to speak up for themselves. When we’re out and they have a question, they should ask it—not me.
5. Solving Their Own Problems
It’s vital for kids to handle their conflicts, provided no one is in danger. They need to learn how to manage everyday drama with friends. I’m here to support them, but I won’t intervene with other parents based solely on one side of the story. They need to experience these situations for personal growth.
Am I confident my kids will thrive in the real world? I’m unsure, but I’m grateful for the free help while it lasts. They roll their eyes at least ten times a day, so I must be on the right track in my endeavor to raise capable adults.
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Summary
Raising children who can manage adult responsibilities involves teaching life skills through cooking, chores, independence, and problem-solving. By allowing them to take ownership of their tasks and experiences, parents can prepare them for the real world while enjoying their help at home.