Parents should teach their children their DIY skills. It imparts knowledge and is an opportunity for bonding.
Aug. 24, 2007 Teaching the Kids
Today I took my nine year old daughter to her school for the meet-the-teacher ritual; the new school term begins next Monday. Seeing all those other parents and children in the educational setting made me think of that concept that is raised in the media periodically – families with both parents working are leaving it up to the schools to teach the kids everything.
In my mind that's just wrong. I have always taken the other viewpoint with my daughter. I have taught her to work on the car; not because I want her to do it but because I don't want her to get ripped off when she is older just because she is female. As in, “Sorry Miss, we're going to have to change those muffler bearings!” And yes, it happens. Sadly.
Likewise, I teach her about woodworking. At the tender young age of five I had her out in the shop making a pen on the mini-lathe out of a choice chunk of purple heart. Of course I was hovering over her like a vulture making sure that she didn't send that knife flying.
Not only does this practical training give kids a skill, it is a great bonding experience. It seems like parents are so into the “soccer parent” mentality today that they don't convey the right things to their children. Sure, it's great to take them to the practice and the game but the coach is doing the important bonding.
So include the little one. If you're painting, give her a brush; just use an extra few drop cloths and follow up on the runs. They will learn a skill, gain self-confidence, and in the end, you will have been a better parent.
