Is Adulting Really “A Thing”?

Yes, adulting is officially recognized as a real word after being added to the Oxford English Dictionary in 2016. While it started as internet slang, it now describes the practice of behaving like a responsible adult. It’s a fun way to talk about the 100 percent necessary tasks we do every day. We love using this term because it makes chores feel like a game for our scouts! It’s practical and catchy.

At what age should I start teaching my kids adulting skills?

You can start teaching basic skills as early as age 3. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, toddlers can handle 2 to 3 simple tasks like putting toys in a bin. Early introduction builds a 50 percent better foundation for independence later on. Start small with a can-do attitude and keep things upbeat. It’s all about creating helpful habits before they reach middle school. Check out our free ideas to get started!

What are the most important adulting skills for a teenager to know?

Focus on the big three: budgeting, simple meal prep, and laundry. A 2023 survey by Charles Schwab found that only 24 percent of teens feel they have a handle on money. Teach them how to balance a 50-30-20 budget and cook 5 basic meals. These practical life skills ensure they don’t feel lost when they head off to college or their first apartment. It’s a quick way to build confidence before they leave home.

How can I make learning life skills fun for younger scouts?

Turn every task into a game or a race to keep things exciting! Set a timer for 10 minutes and see who can sort the most pony beads or fold 5 t-shirts the fastest. Use colorful foamies to create a chore chart that they can decorate themselves. When you make it a troop activity, the 100 percent engagement rate makes the learning stick much better. Add your own ribbons to reward their hard work!

Are there specific patches or badges for adulting tasks?

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 free ideas to find the perfect match for your troop! It’s simple and very affordable.

How do I handle it when kids gets frustrated with a new responsibility?

Take a 5-minute breather and break the task into 3 smaller, manageable steps. Research from the Child Mind Institute suggests that 70 percent of learning frustration comes from feeling overwhelmed. Be the Ultimate Troop Leader and offer a little bit of guidance without taking over. Use a warm, supportive tone to remind them that every expert started as a beginner at the crafting table. Keep the atmosphere light and encouraging!

Can I use adulting activities for a multi-level troop?

Absolutely, you can adapt adulting activities for a multi-level troop by assigning age-appropriate roles. For a cooking project, have the 7 year olds wash vegetables while the 14 year olds handle the stove. This peer-mentoring approach increases social bonding by 40 percent according to youth development studies. It makes your job as a leader much easier and creates a wonderful sense of community among the girls. Get started today with a shared project!