Old-fashioned?
13 things we teach our kids when they’re not hip
© Maskot / Getty Images
Yes, then it’s 2021. And then everything is fast and digital and changing. No reason to mutate into a social Neanderthal. 13 skills we teach our children even though they come from other times:
by Marie Stadler
1. How to sort things out on the phone
Can’t you clarify that with a quick email? Nope, not always. Sometimes you just have to pick up the phone. And then you should fucking know how to introduce yourself and answer your questions.
2. How to properly shake hands
The latest Mr. Macron taught us what a proper handshake means. But even if our children never meet Donald Trump, a firm and confident handshake is worth its weight in gold. You’re not always just among your peers.
3. How to maintain and fix things
“Mom, can’t we buy this new?” Yes, we can and no, we don’t. Because otherwise you will suffocate in the garbage at some point. And because things also have a soul. Ask Marie Kondo.
4. That you look at people when you talk to them
Anyone who is with their eyes elsewhere is also with their heads elsewhere. At least that’s how it works and that doesn’t exactly bring any pluses. Neither at work nor in private life.
5. How to write a thank you card. With the hand!
And if it’s a brief note on a post it. A handwritten thank you is more beautiful than any Whatsapp. How do children learn that? “Thanks for setting the table today! That was very nice of you! Mom”
6. How to find a book in the library
Because nowhere do you feel the universe as much as in a huge library. And those who find their way around in it can rightly be very proud.
7. How to choose a gift that the recipient will like (without a gift box in the toy store)
Gift boxes with 5, money wishes with 13 … you can do anything, but without us. Because a gift is a gift when you have thought about who the recipient is, what they like and what connects them to us …
8. How to respectfully treat artists who are on stage
Get up and run when the curtain falls? Save yourself the annoying gossip? Have a loud conversation during the concert? Better not, children, every effort deserves respect. Yes, also a performance in the puppet theater.
9. How to plant a tree
No, not by pressing Alt + Ctrl + B …
10. That you should ask advice from people who know their way around (instead of googling)
Machines are great, people are better. Especially those who know their way around … they will be happy if someone appreciates this and asks.
11. That you admit a mistake and then do better
Yes, parents make mistakes too. If they can admit this, the Lütten learn automatically that there is no shame in making a mistake if you stand by it and can apologize.
12. That everyone who lives in a house must do their part
Princes and princesses have servants, we ordinary Otto citizens have none. Those who learn this from an early age and don’t just get up from the table and leave will later have an easier time with their own household and will be a popular guest even as a child.
13. How to play with a baby
Because there are no better teachers for learning empathy. Anyone who can play with babies also knows to pick up all other people where they are. On their level of knowledge, in their living environment, on their level.