Does Your Kid Know What They Need To Know To Leave The Nest?

Your baby is about to leave the nest.  Eighteen candles have been lit and high school graduation is coming fast - Davis parents your kid graduates at 7pm at the Sundome on June 1.   So the question is: Is your young adult ready to make their way into the real world?

The BusinessInsider.com  has come up with an 8 item list they think your child needs to be able to do at 18 years of age.  Check it out and if your kid comes up short on any of these – you still have a little time to redirect !

1.     The ability to talk to strangers. We used to say don’t do it but young adults need to know the difference between bad strangers and the vast majority of good ones. This includes faculty, landlords, store clerks, bank tellers, doctors and bus drivers --all of whom they’ll run into in the real world.

 2. To find his way around. Maybe you’ve been the family taxi for all these years but part of growing up is learning the ins-n-outs of public transportation, taking care of a vehicle and dealing with traffic.

3.   Manage assignments, workload and deadlines. Giving out reminders about when homework is due or even helping them to do it doesn't teach your kids to how to prioritize and come through when it counts.

4.    Must be able to contribute to the running of a household. Kids today are busier than ever, but having a "checklisted childhood" won't teach them to take care of their own needs, respect those of others or do their fair share for the good of the whole.

5.    Handle interpersonal problems. Solving all of your kid’s issues doesn’t just get you by in the moment, it comes with another bigger problem in the future --your child won't be able to cope or resolve conflicts without intervention.

6.     Cope with ups and downs. Growing up is serious business --much like real life. Let your children learn that things don't always work out as planned and they'll be okay regardless. Then resist the urge to step in and finish a task or beg a teacher for mercy.

 7.      Manage and earn money. It's tough, but sending a kid out into the cold, brutal world where a boss won't necessarily adore them will help them learn the cost of things, how to control cash and foster a sense of responsibility.

8. Be able to take risks. Trying and failing and trying again is how people grow a tough skin and to cope with life. If your young adult is calling you for help, they don't have this skill. (Source: BusinessInsider.com)