15 Ways to Integrate Life Skills Lessons & Postsecondary Transition Activities Into the School Day
According to a survey conducted by the education technology company Panorama Education, 91% of adult respondents across the U.S., including both parents and non-parents, agreed that it's essential for schools to focus on developing life skills. Similarly, the Committee for Children found that teaching students personal and interpersonal life skills boosts their readiness to learn, fosters a positive classroom environment, and enhances their chances of reaching academic milestones. While traditional academic subjects are undeniably important, weaving life skills into your daily instructional routine is also crucial. In fact, a report from the International Association of Administrative Professionals revealed that 67% of HR Managers would hire a candidate with strong soft skills even if their technical abilities were lacking. Conversely, only 9% said they would hire someone with exceptional technical skills but weak soft skills.
The pressure to cover subject area content and to prepare students for testing or subsequent coursework is undeniable, and finding time and space to integrate life skills lessons can be challenging. This is where a good "sponge activity" comes into play. Not only does it help maintain classroom management by keeping students engaged, but it also relieves the pressure of perfect timing. No more breaking into a cold sweat when you find a lesson falling 20 minutes short of the bell on a Friday afternoon in April! Moreover, these activities offer the opportunity to introduce lessons that may not always be prioritized in the traditional curricula.
In this context, “life skills lessons” or "transition activities" refer to lessons designed to prepare students for life after high school. These activities focus on post-secondary education, employment, and independent living. The beauty of these lessons is the high degree of relevance for students. Most high schoolers are either eagerly anticipating or nervously dreading stepping out into the world on their own, but one thing they all share is questions! Given this universal interest, activities about adulting are met with high levels of engagement and enthusiasm. Let's explore how you can weave these lessons into your school day:
Bell Work: Begin or end class with a quick life skill tidbit as part of the daily routine. Topics could include time management, self-care, and goal-setting.
Transition Times: Use the moments between activities to touch on practical topics like understanding credit cards or college applications.
Unplanned Free Periods: When lessons wrap up early or a schedule change arises, fill the time with life skills lessons such as conflict resolution or home maintenance.
Advisory or Homeroom Periods: These general skill development periods are perfect for addressing important topics like professionalism, networking, and job readiness.
During Projects or Group Work: Life skills can be seamlessly woven in as students collaborate on projects, such as public speaking, time management, and teamwork.
Field Trips: Use the opportunity to practice real-world skills like navigation, public transportation, or managing a travel budget.
Before and After Breaks: Right before or after holidays and school breaks, ease in or out of standard routines with lessons on housing options, apartment hunting, or job search strategies.
Standardized Testing Days: After testing, use remaining class time for discussions on financial aid, college scholarships, or purchasing a car.
Special Event Days: Use non-traditional school days, such as spirit weeks or assembly schedules, to delve into topics like investing, insurance, or building credit.
End of the School Year: As students prepare for summer or the next grade, focus on part-time job hunting or planning coursework that supports long-term career and educational goals.
Brain Breaks Between Lessons: During short breaks, discuss budgeting tips, basic financial literacy, or the process of obtaining a driver's license.
When Half the Class is Gone for Sports or Activities: With fewer students, offer personalized guidance on choosing a college, completing applications, or goal setting.
Senior Skip Day: For underclassmen, use the time to discuss college readiness, application strategies, and the variety of paths available after high school.
As an Activity for a Substitute Teacher: If you have a good sub, provide exercises related to job application skills, such as resume writing, crafting cover letters, and practicing interviews.
During Study Hall: Offer resources or workshops on on test-taking strategies, stress management, and effective study habits.
Whenever you find time to introduce these lessons, one key to success is asking students about their areas of interest. Below you’ll find a free checklist you can use to gauge their interests and tailor your lessons accordingly. The pool of resources at Life Beyond High School is always expanding, and I’m aiming to address all of these needs over time. If you have a specific topic in mind that you'd like resources for, please reach out, and I'll add it to the list of upcoming lessons!
