Essentials Every Young Adult Should Know

Carrie Lowe
More and more there are people pouring out of schools that are looking for ways to get their lives started. But what do they really know? They might know the basics of history, and even mathematics, but do they actually have the basic survival skills to make it in the world? What if they find themselves without a job, do they know how to survive then? The terrible reality is that far too many young people are leaving their parents home to set out on their own without knowing exactly what they need in order to be successful. Ensuring that your child leaves home prepared really is not as complicated as you might think, and with some time, your child will be able to leave and succeed as well.

Your first task is to realize that the job of schools is not to teach your child how to live. Merely passing along information and helping to spark a love of learning is what their primary aim is. Because of this, you need to actually assess what your child knows, and what they need to learn before they are on their own. Things such as cooking, cleaning, laundry, budget basics, and even applying for a job might seem like second nature to you, but to a young adult without experience they can be horrifying experiences that leave them running home at the first chance.

Job skills are vital, things like knowing how to operate the basic usage of a computer, complete an application properly, and even create a resume. These are all skills that will play a very large part in actually getting a job, much less a job that is able to cover the bills. Going further, knowing how to properly clean and iron clothing is essential as well to ensure a professional appearance at work, especially since many young adults are unable to afford a dry cleaner to take care of this for them.

Home based survival skills include things such as cleaning, basic cooking skills and even laundry. While learning how to cook a 5-course meal might sound like a great idea, sticking to the basics such as browning meat, and making basics such as spaghetti should always be mastered first to ensure that when money is tight, they still have the skills to prepare a nutritious meal. You should also focus on things such as using a phone book, budgeting skills, and even learning how to pay bills, write a check, and other similar tasks.

Many parents make the mistake of believing that schools prepare their child for the world that exists outside of their home and this is where the biggest problems lie. It takes more than just schools and exams and books to ensure that your child can actually survive in the world on their own, but with a bit of work, it is possible to see your child become a successful adult, and pursue their own lives as a fully functional adult.

Published by Carrie Lowe

Freelance writer and graphics artist.  View profile

1 Comments

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  • Linda M. McCloud11/24/2009

    Informative. It is hard to be prepared for life.

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