Is Adulting Really a Thing?
3-minute read:
The short answer: Yes! It’s not just a hashtag for when you finally fold your laundry on the same day you washed it. “Adulting” was officially added to the Oxford English Dictionary back in 2016.
While it started as internet slang, we love using it with our scouts because it turns “boring chores” into a leveled-up game. It’s a catchy, low-pressure way to talk about the 100% necessary skills every human needs. It’s practical and catchy.
At what age should I start teaching my group adulting skills?
We’ve included some patch suggestions to give to participants. See all our fun patches.
Believe it or not, you can start as early as age 3. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, toddlers are actually great at simple tasks like tossing toys into a bin.
Starting early builds a stronger foundation for independence later on. The secret? Keep it upbeat. If you treat it like a helpful habit rather than a chore, they’ll have the “can-do” attitude they need before the middle school chaos hits.
What are the most important adulting skills for a teenager to know?
If you’re working with teenagers, focus on the essentials that will actually help them survive their first apartment: budgeting, meal prep, and laundry.
- Money Talk: A 2023 Charles Schwab survey found only 24% of teens feel confident with money. Help them master a 50-30-20 budget.
- Kitchen Confidence: Aim for them to master 5 basic, healthy meals.
- The Laundry Cycle: It’s not done until it’s put away!
How can I make learning life skills fun for younger scouts?
For younger scouts, turn everything into a race.
- The 10-Minute Challenge: Set a timer and see who can sort pony beads or fold five t-shirts the fastest.
- DIY Tracking: Use colorful foamies and stickers so they can decorate their own chore charts.
When it’s a troop activity, the engagement is 100% higher because they’re doing it with friends.
Are there specific patches or badges for adulting tasks?
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Self Care Skills Patch Program®
Original price was: $0.99.$0.75Current price is: $0.75. -
Citizenship Skills Patch Program® Group
Original price was: $0.99.$0.75Current price is: $0.75. -
Adulting Skills Patch Program® Group
Original price was: $7.99.$7.50Current price is: $7.50. -
Job Skills Patch Program®
Original price was: $0.99.$0.75Current price is: $0.75.
Yes, there are 15 or more specific badges across various scouting levels that cover these life skills. You can look for the Financially Independent badge for older girls or the Home Scientist journey for younger ones. We also offer an Adulting Patch Program that celebrates everything from cooking a first meal to mastering the laundry. Check out our ideas to find the perfect match for your troop! It’s simple and very affordable. We’ve included two sets of downloads–one for younger girls and one for older girls, making it a perfect choice for mixed levels.
How do I handle it when kids gets frustrated with a new responsibility?
It’s totally normal for kids to get frustrated when a task feels too big. Research from the Child Mind Institute shows that learning frustration often comes from feeling overwhelmed.
Pro-tip: Take a 5-minute breather, then break the task into three tiny steps. Be the “Ultimate Troop Leader” by guiding them without taking over. Remind them that every pro started as a beginner at the crafting table!
Can I use adulting activities for a multi-level troop?
Absolutely. The best way to handle a mixed group is to assign age-appropriate “jobs” for the same project.
- The 7-year-olds: Wash the veggies.
- The 14-year-olds: Handle the stove.
This peer-mentoring approach actually boosts social bonding. It makes your life easier as a leader and builds a real sense of community among the girls.
