Parents are the first and most influential teachers for their children. This guidebook, which is widely respected and popular, makes that important job much easier. It is a trusted resource for many families and provides proven strategies for teaching children the essential life skills they need to live as independently as possible. The book starts with a simple explanation of the basics of teaching and then provides a step-by-step guide for teaching seven different types of skills: readiness, self-help, toilet training, play, self-care, home-care, and information gathering. The fourth edition includes helpful updates, such as a more extensive section on managing behavior problems, a chapter on technology and its benefits, and a chapter on strengthening partnerships with other teachers in the child's life. This resource, based on years of experience working with parents, is filled with humor, helpful illustrations, and stories, making it a must-have for families and professionals who work with them.