Last Updated on January 2, 2024 by The Smetz Files
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I came across a pin on Pinterest, 40 Old Fashioned Skills Kids Need to Know Today. The title grabbed my attention. A few felt out of reach at the moment, but I made a mental note to re-examine this as G&S get a little bit older. It also got me thinking about the ‘old fashioned’ life skills they need to know. Here are the top four from the list I’m thinking about:
How to Play With a Baby
This one is unique, I never thought of playing with a baby as a skill. But, just today our neighbor commented how well our kids play with hers, who are one and three years old. G&S also adore their baby cousin and are highly motivated to take care of her when we visit my brother and sister in law. Also included on this list is how to get to know an older person. I think caring for others centers on an awareness of the needs of those around you, which is a great skill!
How to Write a Thank You Note
Note writing feels relevant. My kids started pre-cotillion (our cotillion chapter) when they entered Kindergarten and part of the curriculum for this age group was how to write thank you notes. I loved this and found it a great reminder to slow down and let them do the writing. Typically in my haste I would write the note and have them sign their name because it was quicker. I love when they get thank you notes from their peers and we endeavor to extend that same gesture.
How to Fix Something Instead of Replace It
I need help with this one! Thankfully Jay (and his Dad) are Mr. Fix Its. I am more apt to find a quick replacement online, order it, and have it shipped. But there is something to be said for tinkering and learning how to fix something before considering it a lost cause and tossing it. At a young age our kids said, ‘search it up!’ when they encountered an unknown. Hopefully they will continue to deepen their curiosity and ‘search it up’ when they need help fixing things.
How to Be Kind
We talk about this skill the most! From ordering food and being kind to the waitstaff at restaurants to greeting the ushers at church as we enter the sanctuary to acknowledging friends in the school car rider line, and of course, encouraging them to use kind words with each other. Their school is celebrating Valen-Kind week with a daily theme centered on acts of kindness to celebrate Valentine’s Day. Sprinkle kindness daily is a great reminder!
What ‘old fashioned’ essential life skills would you add to the list?
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