15 Basic Skills Kids Aren’t Learning in School Anymore
Education has changed a lot over the years, with schools updating their curricula to fit the needs of a fast-paced, technology-driven world. But in focusing on new subjects like coding and robotics, some essential skills that used to be a regular part of education have been left behind. These basic skills might not be as trendy, but they’re crucial for everyday life and success in the workplace. Here are 15 basic skills that schools no longer teach kids, and why it’s important for parents and educators to make sure these skills don’t get lost.
Cursive Handwriting
In the age of keyboards and touch screens, cursive handwriting has become a lost art. Many schools have abandoned the teaching of cursive altogether, arguing that it’s no longer a necessary skill in the digital age. However, research suggests that learning cursive can have benefits for cognitive development, fine motor skills, and even reading comprehension. Plus, being able to read and write in cursive is still important for things like signing legal documents and reading historical manuscripts.
Basic Home Repairs
Gone are the days when shop class was a standard part of the school curriculum. Today, many students graduate without knowing how to perform basic home repairs like changing a light switch, fixing a leaky faucet, or patching a hole in the wall. These skills may seem small, but they can save a lot of money and frustration in the long run. Plus, being handy around the house is a valuable life skill that can come in handy in many situations.
Sewing and Mending
Sewing and mending are skills that were once taught in home economics classes, but have largely fallen out of favor in modern schools. However, being able to sew a button, hem a pair of pants, or patch a hole in a garment can save money and extend the life of clothing. Plus, sewing and mending can be a relaxing and creative hobby that provides a sense of accomplishment and pride.
Basic First Aid and CPR
While some schools may offer a basic first aid course as an elective, it’s not typically a required part of the curriculum. However, knowing how to perform CPR, treat a burn, or stop bleeding can be lifesaving skills in an emergency situation. These skills are not only important for personal safety, but also for being able to help others in need.
Balancing a Checkbook
In an era of online banking and automatic bill pay, the art of balancing a checkbook has become a lost skill. However, being able to keep track of expenses, reconcile bank statements, and manage a budget are essential skills for financial literacy and responsibility. Even if most transactions are done electronically, understanding the basics of bookkeeping can help prevent overdrafts, catch errors, and maintain financial stability.
Cooking and Meal Planning
While some schools may offer a culinary arts elective, basic cooking skills are not typically a required part of the curriculum. However, being able to plan and prepare healthy meals is an essential life skill that can save money, improve health, and bring families together. Knowing how to read a recipe, measure ingredients, and use kitchen tools can also foster creativity, experimentation, and a sense of accomplishment.
Time Management
In a world of constant distractions and competing demands, time management is a skill that is more important than ever. However, many students struggle with managing their time effectively, leading to procrastination, missed deadlines, and increased stress. While some schools may touch on time management strategies, it’s not typically a focus of the curriculum. Learning how to prioritize tasks, break projects into smaller steps, and use tools like calendars and to-do lists can help students (and adults) be more productive and less overwhelmed.
Basic Car Maintenance
For many people, a car is a necessary tool for daily life. However, many schools no longer offer auto shop classes or teach basic car maintenance skills. Knowing how to change a tire, check fluid levels, and perform basic maintenance tasks can save money and prevent breakdowns. Plus, understanding how a car works can help drivers be safer on the road and make informed decisions about repairs and maintenance.
Money Management and Budgeting
Financial literacy is a needed skill for success in life, but it’s not always taught in schools. Many students graduate without a basic understanding of budgeting, saving, investing, and managing debt. This can lead to financial stress, poor credit, and even bankruptcy down the road. Incorporating money management skills into the curriculum, even at a basic level, can help students develop good financial habits and make informed decisions about their money.
Conflict Resolution
In a world of increasing polarization and divisiveness, the ability to resolve conflicts peacefully and respectfully is more important than ever. However, many schools do not explicitly teach conflict resolution skills, leaving students to figure it out on their own. Learning to listen actively, constructively express emotions, and find common ground can help students (and adults) navigate difficult conversations and build stronger relationships.
Basic Home Economics
Home economics classes, which once taught skills like cooking, sewing, and household management, have largely disappeared from modern schools. However, these skills are still important for independent living and self-sufficiency. Knowing how to create a budget, plan meals, and perform basic household tasks can help students transition into adulthood and manage their own households effectively.
Gardening and Basic Plant Care
Gardening and plant care are not only enjoyable hobbies, but also valuable skills for sustainability and self-sufficiency. However, many schools no longer offer classes in horticulture or agriculture, leaving students without a basic understanding of how to grow and care for plants. Learning about soil types, watering techniques, and pest control can help students appreciate the natural world and develop a sense of responsibility for the environment.
Interpersonal Communication
In an age of digital communication and social media, the art of face-to-face conversation and interpersonal communication is becoming a lost skill. Many students struggle with making eye contact, reading body language, and expressing themselves clearly and confidently. While some schools may offer public speaking or debate classes, basic interpersonal communication skills are not always explicitly taught. Learning how to listen actively, ask questions, and build rapport can help students succeed in both personal and professional relationships.
Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
While schools may emphasize memorization and test-taking skills, critical thinking and problem-solving are not always explicitly taught. These skills involve being able to analyze information, ask questions, and find creative solutions to complex problems. The ability to think critically and adapt to new challenges is becoming increasingly important in a rapidly changing world. Incorporating more open-ended, project-based learning into the curriculum can help students develop these skills and prepare for the challenges of the future.
Self-Defense and Personal Safety
While schools may offer general safety tips and drills, basic self-defense skills are not typically part of the curriculum. However, knowing how to protect oneself in a dangerous situation can be a lifesaving skill. Learning basic techniques like how to break a grip, strike vulnerable areas, and create distance can help students feel more confident and prepared in the face of a threat. Additionally, learning about personal safety topics like situational awareness, boundary setting, and consent can help students navigate the world more safely and assertively.
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