Do you homeschool a teen and wonder whether you are doing enough for him or her to be successful in life? If your answer is yes, then welcome to the world of normal homeschooling families! It seems that the older our children grow, the more we worry whether they will be able to succeed in this ever-changing and confusing world.
The good news is that educating children at home provides parents with an excellent opportunity to teach a wide range of critical life skills in addition to traditional academic subjects. Let us explore some of these skills together:
1. Foundation in God
Those of us who have learned how a personal relationship with Jesus Christ impacts one’s life understand that without a proper foundation in God and His Word, our children will struggle to find their purpose in life, build meaningful relationships, and truly thrive. Share the truths of the gospel with your teen through the Word of God, by living out these principles in your daily life, and by drawing inspiration from the examples set by other devoted Christians.
2. Critical Thinking
Encourage your teen’s critical thinking and problem-solving skills by exploring interesting topics, engaging in lively discussions, and solving real-world puzzles together. We have found that as the children get older, taking the time to “just” talk becomes even more crucial. So, why not turn mealtime into a brainstorming session, take evening strolls for heart-to-heart discussions, and make car rides an opportunity to get your teen’s opinion on everything from global news to your latest business moves? It is not just talk; it is the recipe for “creating” a thoughtful and wise teen.
3. Self-Discipline and Emotional Intelligence
Help your teen embrace self-discipline by working together to set and achieve goals, sticking to routines, and staying focused despite distractions. Guide them through the ups and downs and teach them how to persevere when they face challenges. Encourage them to develop a growth mindset, understanding that failure is an opportunity to learn and improve. Teach them to understand and manage their emotions, as well as how to empathize with others and build healthy relationships.
4. Time Management
Help teens develop effective time management skills so that they can balance their academic responsibilities and personal lives. Teach them to create schedules and prioritize tasks; emphasize the importance of setting realistic goals and deadlines. Additionally, encourage the use of tools such as planners or digital apps to track assignments, projects, and/or extracurricular activities. This will help them foster a proactive approach to time management that will serve them well in future academic and professional endeavors.
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5. Organization
Help your teens not just with organizing things, but also with handling all those assignments and projects they have piling up. When it comes to their study space, show them how decluttering isn’t only about tidying up—it is like giving their brain some extra breathing room, making it easier to focus and keeping stress levels in check. It is setting them up for success, both in school and in life.
6. Communication
In addition to teaching your teens to express their thoughts in a clear and organized manner, they should also learn the art of listening, talking things out, and finding solutions when there is a disagreement. Help them practice seeing things from other people’s perspectives and encourage them to work well with different kinds of people. This way, they not only become great at sharing their thoughts but also at understanding and working with others.
7. Financial Literacy
In addition to teaching basic financial literacy skills such as budgeting and saving, provide your teen with practical experiences like managing a small allowance or opening a bank account. Engage them in discussions about credit scores and the real-world consequences of financial choices, ensuring they not only grasp the essentials but also feel confident navigating the twists and turns of their financial future.
8. Cooking and Nutrition
Did you know that according to the latest statistics, 69% of U.S. adults are either overweight or obese? Therefore, it is important to guide your teen to develop a holistic understanding of food, covering aspects like meal planning, grocery shopping on a budget, and minimizing food waste. These practical skills will not only promote his/her healthy lifestyle but also instill responsibility and resourcefulness, preparing him/her for the practical aspects of managing their own household one day.
9. Home Maintenance
In addition to basic home maintenance tasks such as regular cleaning and lawn care, your teen should also learn other practical skills like changing a tire, troubleshooting common household appliances, and understanding the importance of regular home inspections. It is about empowering them to handle the small challenges that happen in daily life.
10. Critical Media Literacy
In today’s world, where information is just a click away, it is crucial for homeschooled teens to develop a discerning eye for online content. Encourage them to question the credibility of information, fact-check sources, and understand the potential biases that may exist in different forms of media. This skill is absolutely essential in the age of information overload.
Do you feel overwhelmed just by reading through the list? Don’t be! Remember that homeschooling provides flexibility, so you can incorporate these life skills into your child’s education and routines to ensure they are well-prepared for the challenges of adulthood.
