I know it’s early, my kids are still quite young, but I believe it’s never too soon to start training them for how to thrive in life.  As adults we know life’s not a box of chocolates and there’s a lot of learning left to do.  Most of us feel the gaps we each face and try to overcome our learning curves as best we can.  We are all inept in one way or another…  I mean after all, life’s a journey right?  We have to figure it out as we go!

 Although I’m an advocate for this obvious aspect, I also feel its good to cover the basics well in effort to set our children up to build a strong foundation and momentum in life.  I hope to foster good habits that will get them through when the tough times come.  Because no doubt they’ll come.  

If my kids have practice in life skills and confidence in their capabilities then all the better!  I think I will be able to rest my head at night.  Essentially this is our ultimate goal as parents in order to raise capable and competent children who can and will succeed without us.  If I am able to do this, I will be happy.  

It simply takes some time and attention, which is what we’re so often lacking.  As I’ve started recognizing this as an area I needed to give more attention towards, I found some things that worked.  For us, homeschool has been a helpful tool in regards to giving more “time” to practicing life skills and positive daily disciplines.  However, all families can accomplish the goals they desire if they focus hard.  

Here are some ways to approach getting your family and children started with good habits and positive lifeskills…

• Discuss with your spouse about things you are glad you know how to do and the things you wish you would have known better about.  Get on the same page with open eyes and ears to see where your work needs to happen.

• Be real with how you model these concepts for your kids… I would say some things need mastered before teaching, but the truth is they don’t.  Your kids can learn an awful lot by watching you get better in a life skill goal of your own.  We have been working to be debt free for a while now and it’s funny to hear our kids talk about money now.  Kind of embarrassing actually!  Kids say the darnedest things!! 

• Make it a priority to make time to work on a said skill with your children.  This shouldn’t be another to do list for you but more a mindset to take advantage of the small opportunities.  For example, I take my kids to work in the concession stand with me at our local ball park when we have duty so they get exposure to counting money and customer service.  Another thing I’ve begun to  encourage them in is making their own breakfast.  I want them to become comfortable and independent in the kitchen, as well as develop an appreciate for food preparation.  I partner with them a little as needed, but only to fill a gap that they are a new at.  This was an opportunity I saw fit with our new routine of homeschooling.  

• Don’t compare yourself to others.  Focus on your own family culture.  This will take work and time, but it will be fruitful to the benefit of your unique life, children, and skills you hope to have success at.

Here’s to raising the next generation!

xx kc