THESE are amongst the reasons that you should Homeschool your children! ~ Editor

Photo by Vitaly Gariev

The evolution of education over the past few decades has been profound. What was once standard curriculum for many students has now faded into memory, replaced by digital devices and tech-centric approaches.

But as we move further into the digital age, it’s worth asking: have we sacrificed some crucial life skills in the process? Let’s explore four key lessons that Baby Boomers were taught in school — skills that today’s students often miss out on.

Everyday Typing Skills

Once a cornerstone of office work, typing was an essential skill that every student learned in the 1960s and 1970s. Students practiced typing on manual typewriters, where accuracy and technique were emphasized. This skill not only helped with careers but also taught students discipline and focus.

Looking at today’s education system, the focus has shifted. While digital literacy lessons are still taught, the emphasis is more on speed and efficiency rather than accuracy and proper technique. The rise of texting and digital communication has minimized the importance of formal typing skills.

Flowing Cursive Writing

For Baby Boomers, cursive handwriting was a basic skill taught throughout elementary school. Neat handwriting was considered not just an academic achievement but also a sign of respect and education. Cursive was used in personal correspondence and even for signature writing.

Today, however, cursive is rarely taught in schools. With the rise of digital devices, handwriting in general has taken a back seat. Many students today can’t read or write in cursive, a skill that once was a hallmark of clear communication.

Research the Old-Fashioned Way

Before the rise of Google and digital libraries, students spent hours learning how to use the Dewey Decimal System and card catalogs to research information. Navigating a physical library and understanding how knowledge was organized was an essential part of education.

Today, research has become as easy as typing a search query into Google. However, the shift from analog to digital research has come with its drawbacks. Students no longer need to understand how books are organized, and the skill of searching for information in the real world is all but lost.

Confident Debating and Public Speaking

Young people need space to discuss and debate topics without worrying about marks or grades. Shutterstock/Monkey Business Images

Debate and public speaking were once core components of the curriculum, helping students develop the skills to argue effectively, think critically, and speak with confidence. These classes emphasized the importance of rhetoric, clear communication, and persuasive argumentation.

In recent years, however, public speaking and debate have become largely elective. Academic subjects dominate the curriculum, and students no longer receive the same emphasis on communication skills.

Conclusion

As education evolves, it’s crucial to reflect on the lessons we may have lost. While digital skills and academic testing have advanced, essential life skills like cooking, budgeting, public speaking, and critical thinking have taken a back seat. If we want to equip future generations with the tools for success, it’s time to reconsider the value of these traditional subjects.

While modern technology has its place, the skills of the past remain just as relevant today. Schools should find a way to balance digital education with practical life lessons – because it’s the combination of both that truly prepares students for the future.

~ Readers Comment ~

My company sponsored me for many years to teach a course to high school seniors on financial management. Considering it was a private elite prep school, I was utterly appalled at the level of ignorance these students displayed on basic facts of life. I went over how to determine return on investment for capital outlays, especially a college or skills education. I gave them basics on the tools and procedures of decision-making. It was always surprising to me that none of this was being taught. I recall talking to a couple of students on how to ensure their planned art degree made fiscal sense. It was a frightening experience. – Seymore Turner

Written by Patience Okechukuwu for Crafting Your Home ~ December 16, 2025