April 6, 2024
I started having my kids (ages 8 and 9) get us tables at restaurants. This simple practice helps them develop several important skills:
Building the “It Wasn’t That Bad” Muscle
Each successful interaction shows them that stepping out of their comfort zone isn’t as scary as it seems.
Experiencing the “I Did It” Moment
There’s a special pride that comes when they return to us, having handled this adult responsibility on their own.
Learning Life Skills
These encounters help them practice their English and learn to interact respectfully with service workers.
Other Ideas
This post went viral on Twitter, and here are some favorite suggestions from other parents:
- Call the hotel front desk to ask for more towels
- Hand tips to valets when they bring the car around
- Drop money in street musicians’ hats
- Handle grocery shopping with a list
- Navigate through airports from entrance to gate
- Order at steakhouses – picking cuts, temperatures, sides, and desserts
- Place their own orders at restaurants
- Make calls for takeout orders
- Ask store employees for help
- Speak directly with doctors and nurses during appointments
- Handle their own communication with teachers
See my full post on Twitter here along with the hundreds of replies.