This post started off as a simple discussion around our dinner table. My husband and I tossed around a list of things we should teach our kids before they leave home and move out on their own. It was just a few things we had noticed they didn’t know how to do yet. And then I asked Facebook what else should be on our list. Facebook always has lots of input! 
I complied the list for myself, but I am betting you either have some teens about to be on their own or you know someone who does. Maybe it’s your grand-kids – you can totally help teach this list to those kids before they move out of their parent’s home. Life is hard and knowing the basics at least gets you a little head start in the world. It makes the big abyss of the world not so scary and it’s biblically what we are supposed to do…teach the next generation. Unfortunately many of the tasks on this giant list don’t get taught until crisis hits. Your teen gets a flat tire on their way to class, the whites turn pink or all of a sudden debt is piled onto a fresh independent life. I get it – we just didn’t think to tell them about XYZ. Well, now you have a super duper giant list to go by!
I’m hoping this list will jog my memory and yours to some of the important things kids would be better off knowing before they are in a bind. I want to equip my kids the best I can and I’m guessing you do to. 
My mom was awesome and made sure I knew how to do laundry and balance a check book before I went off to college. I was well versed in the dangers of credit cards and could cook myself at least the basics. I hope to pass that on to my three little chickadees! You can actually print this list and check off the tasks as you go or share it with a loved one. Be sure and let me know if Facebook and I left off a major task that needs to be added! Tell me – which item do you think is most important for your child to know before they leave home? UPDATE: I will be housing all prints on my store now, so that is helps speed up the blog! The files are getting too big. This print is free, just go grab it! Before you leave would you share this post for others to find, we could all use it!
You and Todd have done a wonderful job. Your kids are friendly, polite, and are always willing to help!
thank you Janet – we lucked out with some great kiddos, sometimes I wonder where they came from LOL!!!
I love this! There a a few things on here I’m going to have to learn along side my kiddos.????
Me too ????????????????????♀️
You have quite a comprehensive list here!
I remember when my son was about 10 and trying to finish a scout badge that called for him to learn how to change a tire. His dad had to work, so my son told me he guessed he’d have to wait to work on that skill. My response: Come on., I’ll show you! He was pretty impressed his mom knew how to change a tire.
That is awesome, I love when moms know stuff!!! You are amazing ❤
Having now launched 2 of my 3 there were a few things I realized we had missed when I would get a random call from them – but being intentional about teaching them life skills before they headed to college has been so valuable for them and I couldn’t be prouder of who they have become: capable, kind human beings who have learned to stand on their own feet and get up to keep going when they fall.