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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]
I am a research scientist and my husband is a doctor. Of course we make appointments for our teens. Of course we accompany them to their appointments, and check the lab work and any exams, and add our knowledge to the discussion. The doctors treating our children expect it, and would find us remiss if we didn't. I don't know of any family in our circle who does not do this, especially the medical ones who know what medicine is and how easy it is to miss certain issues.

Of course, many appointments are routine with no surprises. But until they live independently, it's always good to be there for the odd result or medical tangent. And since I'm the general house manager, it's easier for us all if *I* make the appointments. Just as a matter of practicality.

Separately, I've always found it amusing, endearing even, how some people on DCUM are obsessed with their kids learning how to do certain things early on. House chores, administrative tasks, etc. Those things are easy. It does not matter at all whether someone learns then at 8 or 18, because it's not rocket science. I didn't lift a finger in my own house until I left for college, and yet had no trouble making appointments, doing laundry and cooking meals for myself. Same for my husband. None of these things have a difficult learning curve! Do not stress about "teaching" your children these things, or having them "practice". They will get it easily when they need to.

Now my oldest is in college, and predictably, he has no trouble managing his life, despite not having "practiced" much prior to leaving home.

[/quote]

Based on parenting books and classes (PEP), my understanding is that chores are good for kids' self-esteem and development and helps them feel like autonomous beings. It is not really about making sure they know how to do things. I was raised similar to you OP, I never did any chores at home. My chore was home work. I figured out how to do laundry and the dishes in college. It was fine - but I still require my kids to do chores based on what I read/learned. Sounds like your kids are doing fine anyway - that makes sense - we all do things to encourage our kids' development that may not be strictly necessary for all kids - but it is hard to know which kids need what in advance. [/quote]

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