Kids can't grow up responsibly if parents don't show them how

You probably know some people who've never quite grown up. They may have jobs, but never seem to be able to live on their own.

One reason may be that they didn't learn how to take on the responsibilities of adult life. Their parents may not have taught them the skills they need--to balance a budget or to take care of basic life skills like cooking or doing laundry.

If you want your child to grow up and live as an independent adult, you need to start teaching him those skills today. Here are some ways you can help your child develop the habits that will get him ready for adult life:

1. Expect him to get himself up in the morning. Even a first grader can learn to wake up to an alarm.
2. Teach him to care for his own clothes. Young children can put clothes in the laundry basket.
3. They can fold their own clothes and put them away. Older kids can learn how to do laundry.
4. Help him manage money. Whether it's an allowance or payment for extra chores, teach your child the value of saving.
5. Enlist his help. Every family member should do something that helps out the family. Young children can set the table. Older kids can learn how to prepare a simple meal. When they do these things, thank them for making your home run more smoothly.
6. Volunteer. Make time for your family to volunteer together. Doing something for others builds responsibility.

Reprinted with permission from the January 2010 issue of Parents make the difference!® (Elementary School Edition) newsletter. Copyright © 2010 The Parent Institute®, a division of NIS, Inc. Source: William Damon, The Path to Purpose: Helping Our Children Find Their Calling in Life, ISBN: 9781-4165-3723-6 (Free Press, www.simonandschuster.net).