How to Teach Life Skills to a Preteen

Preparing your child for a world full of adult responsibilities can seem like a monumental task, but it doesn't have to be if you begin early. Preteens, children aged 9 to 12, are at a stage in their development when they crave independence. Follow these steps to learn how to teach life skills to a preteen and give her the proper tools to become a successful and confident adult.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Teach your preteen the importance of being on time. Give her a calendar and daily planner, and show her how to write down her commitments such as after school activities, homework and projects. Additionally, help your preteen come up with a schedule that she can follow easily that will help her complete chores and assignments.
2. Show your preteen how to manage money. If you give your child an allowance, teach him how to budget his money for the things he wants. Make a list of how you both agree the money should be spent. For example, have your preteen set aside a portion of his allowance to save, spend and donate. Help him to keep track of his money in a notebook or ledger.
3. Instill a love of learning in your preteen. Discuss with your child the importance of a good education. Have your preteen get involved in peer tutoring, study groups and school-sponsored activities.
4. Nurture empathy by having your preteen volunteer her time or talents. There are many volunteer opportunities that you can take part in with your child. You could walk a dog at an animal shelter, prepare meals at a food pantry or take part in community clean-up.
5. Help your preteen develop the ability to handle conflict by modeling appropriate behavior yourself. Teach him to talk through his problems instead of reacting negatively through words or actions.