Life Skills Checklist

Use this checklist to better understand what your teen still needs to learn to be independent: 

Preparation for an apartment
Can your teen …

• read and understand a lease agreement?
• set up utilities?
• furnish and decorate on a budget?
• figure out how much rent she can afford?
• find a nearby branch of her bank?

Preparation for necessities
Can your teen …

• make a grocery list based on a budget?
• do laundry?
• buy clothing as needed (not as wanted)?
• do basic auto maintenance and know when to take a vehicle to a mechanic?
• return an item for a refund or store credit?
• respectfully stand up for herself?
• budget and plan for tithing and gift giving?

Preparation for fun
Can your teen …

• determine how much he can spend dining out?
• tip appropriately?
• understand that not everyone’s money situation is the same and avoid trying to “keep up” with kids who have more?
• sacrifice when the cost of an activity — tournament or trip — outweighs resources?
• figure out weekly fuel cost for commutes from home to regular activities?

Preparation for emergencies
Can your teen …

• work extra during the summer to build an emergency fund?
• figure out whom to call for different types of emergencies?
• fill out paperwork at a doctor’s office and use his insurance card?
• have the means to call a cab if she needs to get out of an uncomfortable or dangerous situation?
• talk openly with you if there is a situation beyond her abilities?