1. How to Manage Money

Something many people are clearly lacking is the ability to manage money, which does involve a little math but is really a skill unto itself. We can begin teaching money-management skills at a young age by giving children an allowance. As they grow into teenagers, it’s appropriate to slowly give them more responsibility around the house, and things like washing the car, cleaning the kitchen and taking out the trash can add up to a higher weekly allowance. This teaches kids the value of a dollar, shows them how to save and prepares them to become active in the work force

2. How to Stay in Balance

Many parents push their kids very hard, and while an encouraging presence isn’t a bad thing, it’s good to remind kids about what matters most in life. Being true to who they are, following their passions and spending time with the people they love are all as important as doing well in school. If you have a little overachiever in your household, don’t be afraid to remind him or her that it’s okay to take a day off.

3. How to be Kind and Assertive

Assertive behavior will get your children far in life, and it’s perhaps the most important life skill on this list. Studies have shown that assertive people do the best at their careers, and they don’t have to hurt other people to do it. By teaching our children that kindness and respect for others is the best way to get what they want, we will prepare them to be healthy, compassionate and productive members of society. As parents, we have an opportunity to change the future. Hopefully, our schools will begin teaching our kids more of these life skills one day. Until then, it’s on us to show teens how to be responsible and kind adults. The best way of doing that is to work on these skills ourselves.