CHILD

59 things every parent should teach their child

First published on Monday 11 July 2016 Last modified on Friday 29 January 2021

Child reading a map

Researchers have revealed 59 things every parent should teach their child to set them up for life. Mums and dads across the UK have contributed to the list. We're especially loving the last item on the list (lesson: twist the bottle not the cork)!

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The 59 most important life skills to teach your child (according to British parents)

1 Always say please and thank you

2 Respect your elders

3 Show good table manners

4 Always tell the truth

5 Don't talk to strangers

6 Brush your teeth properly twice a day

7 Treat others with kindness

8 Be confident

9 Be helpful

10 Admit when you're wrong

11 Work hard at school

12 Know when to say 'No'

13 Save money and spend it wisely

14 Be independent

15 Learn how to swim

16 Appreciate wildlife/animals

17 Show compassion

18 Accept defeat with grace

19 Deal with rejection and disappointment

20 Comfort others

21 Have a loving relationship

22 Don't walk home alone at night

23 Get along with people you may not like that much

24 Always look on the bright side

25 Distinguish needs from wants

26 Support yourself financially

27 How to add, subtract, multiply and divide

28 Look someone in the eye when talking to them

29 How to tie a shoelace

30 Eat your greens

31 How to ride a bike

32 How to write a thank you letter

33 Tell the time on a clock with hands

34 How to make your bed

35 Always accept a challenge

36 How to deal with tragedy

37 How to resolve a dilemma

38 How to negotiate

39 To always clear your plate after dinner

40 Read before you go to bed because it's good for you

41 How to drive a car

42 How to throw a ball

43 Don't get involved in unnecessary dramas

44 Watch TV and play video games in moderation

45 How to read a traditional map

46 How to dress for an occasion

47 How to bake a cake

48 How to give a firm handshake

49 How to knot a tie

50 How to write an essay

51 How to wrap a present

52 How to change a flat tyre

53 How to fly a kite

54 How to start a fire

55 How to pitch a tent

56 How to dive into a swimming pool

57 How to do a cartwheel

58 How to use chopsticks

59 How to open a champagne bottle

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