Families are in crisis this back-to-school season. Your gift today can give them hope and guidance.

Urgent Need: As the back-to-school season begins, more parents are reaching out for biblical help, but giving has slowed and Focus on the Family is facing a $2 million ministry shortfall.
Will you make a gift before August 31 to help provide Christ-centered support in this critical season?
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Families are in crisis this back-to-school season

Your gift by August 31 will help reach them with biblical guidance, restore hope in their homes, and point them to Christ.

Families are in crisis this back-to-school season

Urgent Need: As the back-to-school season begins, families are facing mounting pressure—tough choices, cultural confusion, and strained relationships.

Will you make a gift before August 31 to help provide Christ-centered support in this critical season?

$
Please enter a valid amount

Families are in crisis this back-to-school season

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Life Skills Checklist

Use this checklist to help prepare your teens for independence.

Use this checklist to better understand what your teen still needs to learn to be independent: 

Preparation for an apartment
Can your teen …

  • read and understand a lease agreement?
  • set up utilities?
  • furnish and decorate on a budget?
  • figure out how much rent she can afford?
  • find a nearby branch of her bank?

Preparation for necessities
Can your teen …

  • make a grocery list based on a budget?
  • do laundry?
  • buy clothing as needed (not as wanted)?
  • do basic auto maintenance and know when to take a vehicle to a mechanic?
  • return an item for a refund or store credit?
  • respectfully stand up for herself?
  • budget and plan for tithing and gift giving?

Preparation for fun
Can your teen …

  • determine how much he can spend dining out?
  • tip appropriately?
  • understand that not everyone’s money situation is the same and avoid trying to “keep up” with kids who have more?
  • sacrifice when the cost of an activity — tournament or trip — outweighs resources?
  • figure out weekly fuel cost for commutes from home to regular activities?

Preparation for emergencies
Can your teen …

  • work extra during the summer to build an emergency fund?
  • figure out whom to call for different types of emergencies?
  • fill out paperwork at a doctor’s office and use his insurance card?
  • have the means to call a cab if she needs to get out of an uncomfortable or dangerous situation?
  • talk openly with you if there is a situation beyond her abilities?

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