I recently read an article entitled “15 Basic Skills Schools No Longer Teach Kids.” Intrigued, I had to check it out.

The article explained that, while education has evolved significantly over the years – with schools adapting their curricula to meet the demands of a rapidly changing world – the process of embracing new technologies and preparing students for the future has resulted in some fundamental skills that were once education staples have fallen by the wayside.

These skills, while perhaps not as flashy as coding or robotics, are nonetheless essential for navigating everyday life and succeeding in the workplace.

Here are some of the basic skills that schools no longer teach kids, and why it’s important for parents and educators to ensure that these essential skills are not lost in the shuffle.

Basic home repairs

Gone are the days when shop class was a standard part of the school curriculum. Today, many students graduate without knowing how to perform basic home repairs like changing a light switch, fixing a leaky faucet, or patching a hole in the wall. These skills may seem small, but they can save a lot of money and frustration in the long run. Plus, being handy around the house is a valuable life skill that can come in handy in many situations.

Sewing and mending

Sewing and mending are skills that were once taught in home economics classes but have largely fallen out of favor in modern schools. However, being able to sew a button, hem a pair of pants or patch a hole in a garment can save money and extend the life of clothing. Plus, sewing and mending can be a relaxing and creative hobby that provides a sense of accomplishment and pride.

Basic first aid and CPR

While some schools may offer a basic first aid course as an elective, it’s not typically a required part of the curriculum. However, knowing how to perform CPR, treat a burn or stop bleeding can be lifesaving skills in an emergency situation. These skills are not only important for personal safety but also for being able to help others in need.

Balancing a checkbook

In an era of online banking and automatic bill pay, the art of balancing a checkbook has become a lost skill. However, being able to keep track of expenses, reconcile bank statements and manage a budget are essential skills for financial literacy and responsibility. Even if most transactions are done electronically, understanding the basics of bookkeeping can help prevent overdrafts, catch errors, and maintain financial stability. I wish they offered this at good old Woodrow Wilson High!

These aren’t all the courses that are bygone but you get the idea. Sometimes we need to go back to the beginning to advance to the end, capisce?

Kimerer is a columnist who yearns for a simpler time and misses the old high school courses that rocked back in the day. Contact her with the ones she may have missed at pkimerer@zoominternet.net.