How You Can Help Your Teen Attain Skills Needed For Adulthood

You blinked, and suddenly, your child isn't so little anymore. They've reached the teenage years. And while this period of their life isn't easy, you can't help but feel proud of everything they have accomplished so far, for everything they have yet to do.

It seems as if they have forever until they reach adulthood, but in reality, you know it will come quickly. You know you must prepare them for the "real world" and how challenging it can be.

Here is a guide to remind you of some important life skills that they will need to know.

Teaching Them Time Management

As a teen, they likely haven't had to worry about time management too much. Sure, they have experienced it a little through studying, homework, or getting to practice on time. But we live in a fast-paced world that can easily make time quickly disappear.

You might not think they always pay close attention, but they are. It might be hard, but try to model good time management skills for them. Make a schedule or to-do list and leave it where they can see it. As you finish things, cross it off the list. 

Seeing you model these types of behaviors and stay organized will help them come up with solutions and systems to help them stay on track.

Budgeting

This might seem obvious but it's trickier than it seems. How can you help them learn to budget when they don't exactly have a steady and full stream of income coming in?

When creating your own budget, have them sit at the table with you and watch you. Show them how you record your paycheck and then subtract the outgoing expenses from there. Let them see how you budget your income so you can put away money each month to save up for unexpected expenses. 

It's common for many teenagers not to realize how much goes into being an adult and what they will need to pay for on their own. Seeing your budget will help them realize there is more to expenses than food, car payments, and rent/mortgage. 

Plus, seeing your budget for the household might make them fully realize how much work you do to keep them comfortable and cared for in life.

Work Ethic Is Important, But So Is Self-Care

We aren't living in a time that leaves much room for relaxing. Having a strong work ethic is important, and showing up for your commitments is a crucial life skill. However, don't forget to show them the other side of things by exemplifying good self-care.

Self-care looks different for everyone, but there are some good foundational skills to teach them. Show them the importance of healthy eating while still being able to indulge in their favorite foods or snacks from time to time. Encourage them to stay active by going for an evening walk together or on the weekends.

Teach them that it's okay to take a break from the hustle and spend time with a favorite hobby or activity. Don't be afraid to encourage them to open up about their feelings or thoughts when ready to talk.

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The truth is, there are so many things they need to learn about the world and life. Some of these things are concrete items you can teach and guide them through. Others, unfortunately, will be experiences they will have to go through and learn the hard way.

Remember, though, this is not a clock that will run out of time. Even when they reach adulthood and are alone, they will likely still come to you with questions when they need guidance. 

A great way to prepare them for adulthood is also through teen counseling. Therapy can help them learn effective ways to manage their mental health and regulate their emotions. Reach out to learn more.