Summer is a great time to press pause on homework, tests, and multiplication facts to get in touch with skills that will help outside a checklist. These life skills for big kids printables are excellent for ages 6-10 and cover a variety of daily tasks. I created this calendar to explore one self-help skill daily and included a simple checklist if you want to go at your own pace.
RELATED: Do you remember summer as a kid? I remember pool days with friends and biking until dark. Here are a few ways to keep kids entertained this summer.
What are life skills?
Life skills are essential daily tasks that help build independence and confidence. These skills fall into categories such as daily hygiene, house maintenance, meal prep, problem-solving, communication, time management, and understanding how to navigate life outside the home. (because you know we won’t always be there)
This list of self-help skills is not for one and done. Instead, use this list to introduce or reinforce skills that have been previously taught and need more practice.
FREE calendar and life skills checklist
Life Skills for Big Kids
Subscribe to our newsletter and get these FREE life skills resources for your family to use:
- During summer days
- On the weekends
- When you see fit
(If you are already a subscriber, you will not be subscribed twice. Enter your name and email to print!)
How to use these resources
I wanted something that took the overwhelm out of a giant checklist. So rather than aimlessly wander from item to item, I put one daily on the calendar. Use this calendar with your calendar from the Summertime Bundle to get the most out of your summer at home with kids!
Life skills for ages 6-10
Let’s highlight some life skills from the calendar and list the printables.
Pick a recipe, gather the ingredients, and make it!
Does your child have a lot of opinions about what’s for dinner or why there isn’t any more milk? Now is their opportunity to meal prep. On the first day, invite your child to pick a meal from a cookbook or online. On the next day, gather the ingredients at home or the store. The third day is for cooking! Stand on the sidelines and assist as needed.
Cut toenails
I know how fast we do tasks like this, but cutting toenails is something your child will eventually need to do on their own. So pass the clippers! This one is for them to give a try.
Order your food at a restaurant
Does your child know how to pick up the phone and order a pizza? Have them try it and stand by if the restaurant asks them to speak to an adult.
Pay cash at checkout
In a digital world, our children begin to think everything is free. Grab a ten and head to Starbucks, or somewhere they can order, hand the cashier cash, and count the change.
Make mac and cheese
When the kids were little, I would leave mac and cheese for the babysitter to cook for their dinner. How did she know how? She must have practiced at home. Grab the box and help your child make their serving!
More articles on growing up and independence
You may also enjoy these articles for big kids.
Big Kid Activity Cards
Because our big kids crave hands-on learning, too!
20 hands-on activities for ages 5.5-8 years old.
