Most parents try to ensure their children get a good academic education, but fail to do the same for basic, useful everyday and vocational skills.

I'm not suggesting parents train their children to be a plumber or a mechanic, but it would be nice for kids to have an idea how to do practical things. Vocational skills could also be taught to enable them to earn a bit of spending money and could even act as a launching point for career interests.

The average person needs and uses many skills in an average day. Other skills are utilized less frequently, but we all have discovered the savings and joy of doing things ourselves. Most adults can make change, paint a room, hang a picture, or mow a lawn. Many of us can install a washer in our faucet, plant a garden, change oil in our vehicle, or cook on the grill. Yet many teens are incapable of these simple tasks. Parents must teach these things. Show kids how, and then let them do it themselves.

A teen with basic skills will be a much more effective, functional and happy adult. All these things can be an indicator -of where their talents lie and could be a beginning of a career choice. If nothing else, these interests may develop into a hobby, which could one day become a lucrative part-time job.

Parents, as homeowners, have many opportunities to teach their children every day. Don't forget vocational skills, which prepare kids to succeed in life.

Credits: Jo Ann Wentzel