Sample Set of Life Skills Kids Must Acquire: (all skill levels are dependent upon your child's maturity level, individual ability and safety measures)
ages 2-3
help put toys away
dress him/herself (with some help from you)
put his/her clothes in the hamper when he/she undresses
clear his/her plate after meals
assist in setting the table
brush his teeth and wash his face with assistance
ages 4-5
know his/her full name, address, and phone number
know how to make an emergency call
perform simple cleaning chores such as dusting in easy to reach places and clearing the table after meals
feed pets
identify monetary denominations and understand the very basic concept of how many is used
brush his/her teeth, comb his/her hair, and wash his/her face without assistance
help with basic laundry chores, such as putting his/her clothes away and bringing his/her dirty clothes to laundry area
choose his/her clothes to wear
ages 6-7
mix, stir, and do basic cooking needs
make a basic meal such as a sandwich
help put groceries away
wash the dishes
straighten up the bathroom after using it
make his/her bed
became somewhat independent when he/she bathes (with supervision)
ages 8-9
fold his/her clothes
learn simple sewing (use caution, depending on your child's maturity level and needs)
care for outdoor toys
take care of personal hygiene without being told to do so
use a broom and dustpan properly
read a recipe and prepare a simple meal
help create a grocery list
count and make change
take written phone messages
help with simple lawn duties such as watering and weeding flower beds
take out the trash
ages 10-13
may stay home alone (depending on your child's needs)
go to the store and be able to make purchases
chase his/her own bedsheets
use the washing machine and dryer
plan and prepare a meal with several ingredients
use the oven to broil or bake foods (use caution depending on your child's maturity level, he/she may need supervision)
read labels
iron his/her clothes (use caution depending on your child's maturity level)
learn to use basic hand tools
mow the lawn (dependent upon your child's maturity level and needs)
look after younger siblings and neighbors
ages 14-18
to be able to do more sophisticated cleaning chores such as changing the vacuum bag
fill a care with gas, add air to a tire
read and understand medicine labels and dosages
interview for and get a job
prepare and cook meals
Young Adults:
make doctor and dentist appointments and other health related appointments
have a basic understanding of finances and be able to manage his/her bank account, balance a checkbook, pay bill
understand basic contracts such as an apartment or car lease
schedule oil changes or car maintenance
Resources: How to Raise an Adult by Julie Lythcott-Haims
