A mom in Utah recently made headlines after creating what she calls “How to Be a Person” camp for her children. She curated a wide-ranging list of things she’d like her kids to learn this summer — everything from blowdrying hair to how to wash and cut produce.
I’m a list-maker by nature, so the concept was instantly appealing. (I did, however, balk at the name. I know a lot of neurodivergent folks, and I don’t want to imply that there’s only one way to be a person or that not possessing these skills makes one an inferior person.)
So I sat down with my 8-year-old son, Everest, and we created a list of things to learn this summer.
I highly recommend collaborating on the list, because I was shocked by how many things Everest wanted to know, I simply haven’t given him the opportunity to learn yet. Things like following a recipe or putting clothes in the dryer.
Other items on the list address things E has tried but hasn’t mastered, like double-knotting his shoelaces. This is his chance to practice.
We’re calling it Everest’s Life Skills Summer Camp, and he’s really looking forward to tackling each item. So I think I found a way to successfully pawn off the laundry on my kid? *fist pumps the air*
Here’s what’s on our list
I’m curious what else you might add? (Keep in mind that something like this is going to vary wildly by the child, their environment, and their family, so I don’t think this is a one-size-fits-all situation.)
Double-knot shoelaces
Address an envelope
Make a simple meal
Memorize social security number
Use a screwdriver
Hammer a nail
Load the dishwasher
Wash and dry a load of clothes
Use a sharp knife
Follow a recipe
Memorize mommy’s phone number
Call for help
Simple first aid
Floss well
Order politely at a restaurant
Figure out a tip
Clean the bathroom
Microwave food without blowing anything up
Change batteries
Change a lightbulb
Use leftover food/transform leftovers
Write a grocery list
Offer a genuine compliment
Graciously accept a compliment
Make a sincere apology
So tell me: What do you consider to be essential life skills?