Over the last several years that we have been homeschoolers, we have gone through our fair share of curricula. We love great workbooks, textbooks, manipulatives and other supplements for our basic subjects – math, reading, spelling, science and history. One thing that became very important for us to incorporate into our daily routine though were everyday skills for kids that we knew our girls would need as adults.
We focus mainly on the academics everyday during our “homeschool time” but we also think it’s extremely important to ensure our kids know how to do the simple, everyday things around the house. These are just a few of the everyday skills that we have made into lessons for our girls over the last few years. And yes, I know they are all pretty simple tasks but I also know that many adults struggle with some of these tasks because they were never shown how to properly complete them. It’s also a great way to empower your kids and help build their self confidence when it comes to being independent and helping around the house.
I’ve attached a few links to some of the workbooks and activities that we found and have used to pair with some of the tasks!
- Sew on a button
- Check the oil in the car
- Balance a checkbook
- Change a light bulb
- Wash and dry a load of laundry
- Write a check
- Load the dishwasher
- Make a first aid kit
- Know how to shut off the gas/water/electric
- Write and mail a letter
- Follow a recipe
- Add air to tires
- Use measuring cups/spoons
- Change an air filter
- Prepare a menu
- Fold clothes
- Bake a loaf of bread
- Fill the car with gas
- Make a grocery list
- Pay a bill
- Prepare a budget
- Set an alarm clock
- Clean and disinfect the bathroom
- Use a map or GPS on a trip
- Unclog the toilet or sink
I’d love to hear what everyday skills you are teaching your kids at home too! Leave us a comment below and tell us what special lessons or activities you’ve work on at home!