The list is long when it comes to the life skills we hope our teens will learn before they leave home. As homeschool moms, we often find ourselves balancing academics with practical lessons that will serve our kids for the rest of their lives. But today, I want to focus on one skill that’s often overlooked—building thankful teens.
Are you… or is your teen, someone who practices gratitude regularly? Do you take the time to see and acknowledge the blessings you’ve been given? (We are the example)
Thankfulness isn’t just a polite habit, it’s a leadership trait. Great leaders lead by example, and leadership begins on the inside. So I ask you: does your teen possess the leadership skill of thankfulness? If not, how can we as parents help them develop this?
Most teens understand the concept of being thankful and realize that thankful teens tend to be happier and more pleasant to be around. It draws others to them, and let’s be honest—don’t we all want our kids to attract good people into their lives? Gratitude is a life skill that can transform their outlook on life and the relationships they build.
As you raise thankful teens through words and actions, remind them that the ability to learn every life skill you teach them is a gift from God.
- They have a mind that can think, recall, and learn
- They have hands that can clean, fix, fold, etc
- They have legs that can take them to the task at hand.
When a complaint starts to form, ask them to think of one ability they have that God gave them to be able to complete the task! You’ll be inspiring a thankful teen.
A heart full of gratitude is a gift!
But beyond thankful teens, what else should your teen be learning?
There are so many life skills that we, as parents, hope our teens are equipped with by the time they’re ready to step out on their own. Here’s a breakdown of a few more key skills your teen should master before they leave the nest.
1. Money Management
Managing money wisely is arguably one of the most crucial life skills. It’s not just about balancing a checkbook anymore (does anyone do that?), but knowing how to budget, save, and make smart financial decisions. Whether they’re earning a part-time income or receiving an allowance, teach your teens how to handle money responsibly. Banking, paying bills, understanding credit—these things are so important for their future independence.
2. Essential Meal Prep Skills
Can they feed themselves without resorting to ramen noodles every night? Your teens need to know how to plan meals, grocery shop, and cook for themselves. It doesn’t have to be gourmet, but basic skills like boiling water and preheating an oven are a must. Do they know how to read a recipe, make a well balanced nutritious meal, store left overs? Trust me, you’ll feel better knowing they won’t starve or blow up the kitchen when they’re on their own.
3. Essential Cleaning Skills
Let’s face it—no one wants to live in a dirty house. But if your teen doesn’t know how to clean, they might end up being “that roommate.” You know the one. Teach them how to do laundry, clean toilets, vacuum, mop, and wash dishes. This is about more than just avoiding arguments with future roommates—it’s about taking pride in their living space.
4. Communication, Making Appointments and Phone Etiquette
In a world full of screens, face-to-face communication is becoming a lost art. Help your teen develop the ability to engage in meaningful conversations, listen actively, and express themselves clearly both in person and online. Good communication is the foundation of all healthy relationships, whether personal or professional.
Phone etiquette is easy to overlook, but it’s so necessary. For adults, the concept of calling someone on the phone is second nature, but for teens it’s all about text messaging. Using the phone is best mastered through practice.
Can your teen pick up the phone and make a doctor’s appointment or a dinner reservation without stumbling through the conversation? The best way to teach is through example. They are listening more often than you think. Make sure you are modeling good phone etiquette. It seems to be a lost art! The sooner they start practicing, the better. Next time you need to make a hair appointment, hand over the phone and let them try. They’ll thank you later.
5. Time Management & Organizational Skills
Our society still runs on schedules, and knowing how to manage time is a skill that will serve your teen in every area of life. Whether they’re going into the workforce or continuing their education, they need to know how to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and juggle responsibilities. Help them find a system that works for them, whether it’s a digital planner, a notebook, or phone reminders.
6. Employment Skills
Teens need more than just academic knowledge to thrive in the job market. Teaching them how to craft a resume, dress appropriately for an interview, and follow up professionally is key. They should also know how to search for job postings, negotiate salary, and evaluate job offers. These are all important steps to landing—and keeping—a job.
8. How to Cope with Failure
This one is big. Jessica Lahey, author of The Gift of Failure, points out that kids who never learn to deal with failure often struggle when life throws challenges their way. Failure is part of life—it’s how we grow. Encourage your teen to view failure as a learning opportunity, not a roadblock.
Prepare them now, while they’re still home.
These are just a few of the essential skills I believe every teen should be comfortable with before they leave home. As they learn each skill, it will build their confidence and prepare them to face the world with grace and independence.
What life skills do you hope your teen will master before they take flight?
How are you helping them prepare for life after high school? Do YOU feel confident in guiding them through their high school years? I’d love to support you.
Enjoy these teen years with your child. They go so fast., Be THANKFUL that God allowed you to spend time to pour into their life!
Enjoying the journey,
~Michelle~
You can get the Life Skills Checklist for Teens by leaving your name & email. We’ll zip it on over to your inbox.
Michelle Osborn is the owner and founder of Homeschooling Teens Successfully and Yellow House Book, specializing in providing homeschool curriculum as well as counseling and guidance for homeschool families. She is a wife, a 22-year homeschool veteran, and mom of four children and eight grandchildren. Michelle’s passions include serving by leading worship at her church and encouraging homeschool moms through one on one, social media and speaking engagements. She has found her niche in helping parents homeschooling their teens through the high school years and on to pursue their dreams.
Connect with Michelle:
Homeschooling Teens Successfully on Facebook
Yellow House Book Rental | Homeschooling Teens Successfully on Instagram
Yellow House Book Rental | Homeschooling Teens Successfully on Pinterest
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