Raising children in Nigeria today comes with its own unique challenges. From navigating our fast-paced cities to preparing them for a future that is often unpredictable, it's not enough to just focus on academics. As parents, we must also be intentional about teaching life skills—the kind that help children stand on their own when they eventually leave the nest.
Here is a set of practical life skills every Nigerian parent should make sure their child learns before stepping out into the world alone, with simple ideas to help you start early:
1. How to Manage Money
Children should learn the value of money early. Teach them how to save, plan a simple budget, avoid unnecessary debt, and understand the difference between wants and needs. Let them handle pocket money and make mistakes while you're still there to guide them.
Start early idea:
Give your child a weekly allowance and ask them to write down what they spend it on. Sit with them at the end of the week to talk about their choices.
2. How to Cook
Whether your child is a boy or girl, cooking is essential. Start with basics like boiling rice, cooking beans, making noodles without burning them, and even simple Nigerian soups like egusi or okra. It builds independence and keeps them from relying on fast food or strangers for survival.
Start early idea:
Let your child wash rice, peel yam, or stir the pot while you cook. As they grow, teach them to make one meal from start to finish each month.
3. How to Be a Self-Starter
In Nigeria, opportunities don’t always come knocking. Children must learn how to take initiative—whether it's starting a business, applying for scholarships, or learning a new skill. Teach them to look for solutions, not just wait for instructions.
Start early idea:
If they complain of boredom, challenge them to think of a new game, write a story, or find something to sell in the neighborhood (like cold zobo or handmade crafts). Encourage and praise their effort, not just the result.
Raising children who can thrive in Nigeria and anywhere else in the world takes more than classroom knowledge. It requires intentional teaching, patient guidance, and real-life practice. These life skills might seem basic, but they form the foundation of confidence and responsibility in adulthood.
In our next blog post, we’ll continue with more practical life skills every Nigerian child should learn before leaving home. Stay tuned!
