Turning 16 is a big deal for your teenager, and it'll come faster than you realize. Even though you're busy running around with toddlers and pre-teens now, it won't always be that way and your little sweethearts will need to know how to function in the world.

Before your teen can get behind the wheel without a licensed adult, teach them these 32 important life skills and lessons:

1. How to do a load of laundry without turning everything pink

2. How to make a simple meal

3. How to fill up the car with gas

4. How to manage time wisely

5. How to sew on a button

6. How to iron/steam clothes

7. How to bake a batch of delicious cookies

8. How to dress for an interview

9. That they will never regret being kind to someone

10. Eating healthy and exercising is so important

11. They should always put your napkin on your lap

12. They must never forget to say 'thank you'

13. They should assume that if they say something about someone, that person will hear about it

14. Smile at everyone

15. If they don't have anything nice to say, they shouldn't say anything

16. They have to work really hard if they want something

17. Real people are more important than their phone

18. No one cares if they do something embarrassing (because they probably already forgot)

19. They must always tell the truth. So many people lie, so being trustworthy is such a valuable trait

20. Failure is 100 percent inevitable

21. Don't look at pornography - it's not worth it

22. They should not take themselves too seriously and have fun

23. Nobody has a perfect life

24. Surround themselves with people who push and challenge them (they should never be the smartest person in the room)

25. Don't settle

26. Sometimes they have to do things they don't want to do

27. A positive attitude is one of the most important things they can have

28. The universe doesn't revolve around them

29. They decide whether or not they will be happy today

30. Every single person has a personal, private battle

31. Assume future employers will look at everything they post on the internet

32. They have a solid support system and people who love them. Life can be hard but they are never alone.

This isn't everything your kids need to know, but it's definitely a good start.