I agree with the statement that children should be required to learn practical skills in school, such as cooking, finance in addition to academic subjects. These subjects can make students know, besides knowledge in the books , delicious dishes good finance and some other practical skills can all make some difference to our life.
In China most schools look down on learning the practical skills, because it's nothing useful to students' examinations. And maybe many parents think when children grow up, when they need these skills, they would learn by themselves, it's not very hard.
It's true we can learn many practical skills in our daily life. It seems to waste time if we require children to learn practical skills at school. But I think it's helpful for children to learn some practical skills at school. Besides they are useful in our daily life, I have another two reasons. One is these subjects may make some students like their school life. Because everyone has his unique talents. Some have advantages to learn theoretical knowledge, others have advantages to learn practical skills, they learn them more easily and quickly. In fact I feel very sorry for those students who have bad grades and few subjects to like at school. Their school life is miserable. What they look forward to is the break of classes or holiday. The other reason is it can make some students build their confidence, they can find themselves useful too when they like these subjects and even do well in them. They know when they can not be great scientists, doctors or lawyers, they can be good cooks or tailors and so on.
They all have some optional courses in the western countries, some of the courses are practical subjects. All students can find out what is their interest or favorite from these subjects.It's very helpful for their future life and the their future career. Hope children in China can get the same benefit .
