It’s a paradox that many young adults today are well-versed in navigating the complexities of the digital world but struggle with basic life skills. Gen Z—this generation of tech-savvy, social media-driven, and entrepreneurial young adults—has been handed the keys to the future in the form of innovation, creativity, and digital prowess. Yet, many find themselves baffled when it comes to simple, real-world tasks like budgeting, cooking a meal, or managing a lease.

This generation didn’t necessarily lack the intelligence or potential to learn these skills—they simply weren’t taught them in the traditional education system. The absence of “adulting” lessons in schools, coupled with the changing nature of parenting and the overwhelming influence of technology, has left many young adults ill-prepared for the challenges that come with independent living.

The Gap in Education: Life Skills vs. Traditional Curriculum

In a world where technology and digital proficiency are second nature to many Gen Z individuals, a surprising gap has emerged: essential life skills. While they can seamlessly edit videos, build social media empires, and navigate the online world, many young adults find themselves unprepared when it comes to practical, day-to-day tasks such as managing finances, cooking, or even understanding how to lease an apartment. This generation, which has grown up in the digital age, is now discovering that traditional schooling has overlooked critical lessons for real-world success.

Many Gen Z students, like Aldhen Garcia from Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU), openly admit to feeling underprepared for adult responsibilities. In an interview, Garcia highlighted the lack of practical knowledge, such as changing a tire or sewing a button, which many of his peers struggle with. Bella Hudson, another TMU student, echoed similar sentiments, wishing that these crucial life skills were part of the formal education system. They both agree on one thing: there is a clear and evident gap in the education system when it comes to preparing young people for adulthood.

This gap is being addressed in various educational institutions, where “Adulting 101” courses are becoming more common. For instance, at the University of Waterloo, the launch of the “Adulting 101” program offers resources that help students learn how to manage finances, cook meals, handle cleaning, and even develop career skills. According to Pam Charbonneau, Director of Student Success at Waterloo, many students arrive on campus overwhelmed, unsure where to start, and often struggle with basic life tasks. These courses not only provide valuable knowledge but also a sense of reassurance, with students feeling relieved to know that they have access to help in navigating adult responsibilities.

The absence of these skills in the classroom is not simply a coincidence. Psychologist Jean Twenge attributes the rise of this phenomenon to several factors, including the influence of helicopter parenting, the decline of home economics programs in schools, and an increasing number of young adults continuing to live with their parents well into their late twenties. As a result, many students lack the independence and hands-on experience needed to take on life’s responsibilities when they finally reach adulthood. Twenge explains that this lack of preparation can lead to feelings of being stuck, unable to cope with the complexities of the adult world.

Moreover, this deficiency in practical skills can have serious implications for mental health. Studies, such as a 2023 review published in the Journal of Pediatrics, suggest that the fewer opportunities young people have to build real-life skills, the more likely they are to experience anxiety and depression. Without the confidence gained from mastering essential tasks, young adults may feel overwhelmed and unprepared for the challenges that come with independence.

In essence, the education system’s focus on theoretical knowledge, without balancing it with practical life lessons, leaves many students facing a harsh reality when they transition to adulthood. But maybe, just maybe, Gen Z isn’t helpless—they are simply demanding the education that previous generations needed, too. As they seek out “Adulting 101” classes, they are taking steps to fill the gaps and equip themselves with the tools necessary to thrive in the real world.

The Role of Parenting in Shaping Independent Adults

While the educational system plays a crucial role in preparing young adults for life, parenting, and the home environment have an equally significant influence on a young person’s ability to navigate adulthood. For many Gen Z individuals, the lack of hands-on life experience can be traced back to the parenting styles that shaped their childhoods. In particular, the rise of helicopter parenting—where parents are overly involved in their children’s lives—has led to a generation that is less independent and more reliant on external guidance.

Helicopter parenting is characterized by a high level of parental control and constant oversight, where parents often step in to solve their children’s problems before they even have a chance to attempt them on their own. While well-intentioned, this parenting style can inadvertently stifle a child’s ability to develop the necessary skills for adulthood. Without the opportunity to tackle challenges independently—whether it’s managing a budget, resolving conflicts, or simply making decisions—young people grow up without the confidence or autonomy needed to handle life’s complexities.

Jean Twenge, the psychologist mentioned earlier, has linked this trend to the difficulties many Gen Z individuals face in transitioning to adulthood. According to Twenge, helicopter parenting and the lack of independent responsibilities during high school years leave young adults with a deep sense of inadequacy when they are thrust into adult situations. Parents, driven by the desire to protect their children from failure or discomfort, may unknowingly deprive them of the chance to learn from mistakes and gain real-world experience. As a result, many young adults find themselves ill-prepared when they eventually have to make decisions for themselves.

Additionally, the increasing trend of young adults living with their parents well into their twenties has also contributed to this issue. While living at home may provide comfort and security, it can delay the development of essential life skills. The longer young adults remain in their parents’ homes, the less likely they are to develop the independence and self-sufficiency needed to thrive outside of it. For some, the comforts of home—whether it’s a parent handling chores or taking care of financial matters—mean that they never have to face the real challenges of adulthood.

This over-reliance on parental support, though common, is not without its consequences. As Gen Z reaches adulthood, many find themselves struggling to balance the demands of independence with the safety net they’ve had throughout their childhoods. This transition can feel jarring and overwhelming, as the skills that should have been developed gradually are now required all at once. The emotional toll of this sudden shift can contribute to anxiety, stress, and feelings of inadequacy, especially for those who lack the confidence to handle basic adult tasks.

What’s clear is that the role of parenting—while essential in providing love, care, and guidance—can inadvertently contribute to a sense of helplessness if it goes unchecked. The challenge for both parents and children moving forward is to strike a balance between support and independence, ensuring that the next generation is equipped with both the emotional resilience and practical skills to succeed in adulthood. By encouraging autonomy and providing opportunities for young people to take on responsibilities, parents can help foster the independence that Gen Z desperately needs to thrive in an increasingly complex world.

The Decline of Practical Education in Schools

Another key factor contributing to the “adulting gap” among Gen Z is the decline of practical, hands-on education within the school system. In years past, courses like home economics, shop, and personal finance were standard parts of the curriculum, providing students with essential skills for everyday life. However, as educational priorities have shifted toward more academic and standardized testing-based measures, these practical classes have become increasingly rare.

The absence of home economics, a subject once aimed at teaching young people skills like cooking, sewing, and budgeting, is one of the most notable changes in modern education. While it may seem like a small part of the curriculum, these classes offered students the opportunity to learn skills that are directly applicable to managing day-to-day life. Without such courses, students are left to learn these skills later in life, often through trial and error or by enrolling in adulting courses once they reach college.

Additionally, subjects like personal finance have become almost completely absent from many high school curricula. While students may spend years learning algebra and preparing for standardized exams, fewer are taught how to budget, save for retirement, or understand the intricacies of credit and loans. For a generation that will soon face the realities of student debt, mortgages, and managing their own finances, this lack of financial literacy is particularly troubling. Studies consistently show that financial literacy in young adults is linked to better financial decision-making and a lower likelihood of experiencing financial distress.

Many schools have also cut back on vocational programs, which were once the backbone of practical education. These programs, including skills like auto repair, plumbing, and carpentry, provided students with the opportunity to learn a trade or develop hands-on skills that could be immediately applied after graduation. The loss of these programs means that a significant portion of the student body is graduating without the basic knowledge of how to fix things, manage a household, or perform other essential tasks that contribute to a well-functioning life.

The shift away from practical education is not just a minor change—it’s a systemic issue with wide-reaching consequences. According to a 2020 study from the National Center for Education Statistics, 46% of high school students reported feeling unprepared for adulthood when asked about their level of preparedness for managing money, careers, and personal life. These figures reflect a deeper issue: the disconnect between the skills students are learning in the classroom and the realities they will face once they leave school.

The Decline of Practical Education in Schools

Another key factor contributing to the “adulting gap” among Gen Z is the decline of practical, hands-on education within the school system. In years past, courses like home economics, shop, and personal finance were standard parts of the curriculum, providing students with essential skills for everyday life. However, as educational priorities have shifted toward more academic and standardized testing-based measures, these practical classes have become increasingly rare.

The absence of home economics, a subject once aimed at teaching young people skills like cooking, sewing, and budgeting, is one of the most notable changes in modern education. While it may seem like a small part of the curriculum, these classes offered students the opportunity to learn skills that are directly applicable to managing day-to-day life. Without such courses, students are left to learn these skills later in life, often through trial and error or by enrolling in adulting courses once they reach college.

Additionally, subjects like personal finance have become almost completely absent from many high school curricula. While students may spend years learning algebra and preparing for standardized exams, fewer are taught how to budget, save for retirement, or understand the intricacies of credit and loans. For a generation that will soon face the realities of student debt, mortgages, and managing their own finances, this lack of financial literacy is particularly troubling. Studies consistently show that financial literacy in young adults is linked to better financial decision-making and a lower likelihood of experiencing financial distress.

Many schools have also cut back on vocational programs, which were once the backbone of practical education. These programs, including skills like auto repair, plumbing, and carpentry, provided students with the opportunity to learn a trade or develop hands-on skills that could be immediately applied after graduation. The loss of these programs means that a significant portion of the student body is graduating without the basic knowledge of how to fix things, manage a household, or perform other essential tasks that contribute to a well-functioning life.

The Impact of Technology and Social Media on Life Skills Development

While technology has undoubtedly provided immense benefits, particularly in terms of communication, information access, and creativity, it has also inadvertently contributed to the challenges that Gen Z faces in developing practical life skills. For many young people, much of their time and energy is spent online—whether it’s creating content for social media, consuming entertainment, or engaging with peers. While this digital engagement can lead to impressive skills in areas like video editing, social networking, and digital marketing, it often comes at the expense of developing real-world, hands-on abilities.

Social media platforms, such as Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, are central to Gen Z’s daily life. These platforms provide endless opportunities for self-expression, entertainment, and even income generation. Young people can build entire careers through content creation, and many have become influencers, digital entrepreneurs, or freelance workers. However, the skills required to succeed in this digital space, while valuable, are not the same as those needed to manage a household, maintain a car, or navigate complex financial situations.

For instance, while many Gen Zers can expertly edit videos or build an online brand, basic tasks like budgeting, meal planning, or performing routine home maintenance might seem foreign. This reliance on digital spaces and the constant stimulation from technology can limit the opportunities for young people to engage in hands-on activities that teach valuable life lessons. Instead of learning to balance a checkbook, many are focused on growing a social media following. Instead of learning how to fix a leaky faucet, they’re mastering the art of creating viral content.

Furthermore, the over-reliance on technology can create a sense of detachment from the physical world. With online tutorials, apps, and services that cater to every possible need, it’s easier than ever for young adults to avoid dealing with real-life challenges head-on. Want to know how to cook a meal? There’s an app for that. Need to find an apartment? You can search and sign leases online. While these digital solutions make life more convenient, they also reduce the necessity for learning the underlying skills required to handle these tasks without technological assistance.