What Is the Meaning of Home Economics?

Home economics is the study of skills that pertain to the home and involves subjects such as nutrition, cleaning, financial literacy, cooking and other home-related skills. Home economics is primarily taught in elementary and high schools.

Cleanliness

A major part of home economics is learning proper cleaning procedures for the home. For example, students learn how to clean the stove and oven and how to properly sort out clothes for placement in the washer.

Cooking and Nutrition

Home economics also deals with proper cooking and nutrition standards. For example, students may learn safety measures to follow when frying foods, and then they'll learn the basic food groups and how many calories they should consume per day.

Finances

Students in home economics also learn financial literacy skills. For example, they may learn how to save money on groceries by using coupons and some teachers show how to write out checks, balance checkbooks and how to open a savings account.

Safety

Home safety is another important topic in home economics. For example, students learn how to use the fire extinguisher, how to handle electrical outlets when near water, and how to administer first aid.

Benefits

Home economics is beneficial in that it gives students the opportunity to learn important life skills. It also prepares them for emergencies that will require quick thinking and swift actions.

References

• Ridgeway Area School District: Home Economics

Resources

• Good Housekeeping Magazine