This is mildly interesting...

[Dave A]

Then we really do have things better over here because I think most people at 16 would atleast be able to use a toaster and prepare basic meals by the age of 16. Damn, in today's society of both parents or single mums working 9-5 most kids need to be able to cook some sort of basic meal for when they get home. And quite frankly, most people I know can.

I was cooking basic things for myself when I was 13, that said, there's a few people I know who are a bit lost in a kitchen.

I've read that we're putting pictures of what smoking can cause on the packets soon, such as a good lung and a bad lung side by side, badly affected gums etc.

 

[YSSMAN]

I was referring to the fact that there are instructions on a box of Pop Tarts that tell you to remove them from the tin foil wrappers before inserting them in the microwave or the toaster, so really, its just sad that we have to be warned about so many things that we clearly know about.

Apparently I take my knowledge for granted, as I was informed by a friend today that her cousin who lives in North Carolina is just being forced to learn the States and their Capitols in the 11th Grade! This is crap I was taught in 2nd or 3rd Grade, and truthfully, the only states that throw me off are the ones with the obscure Capitol names...

Its all just so sad.

 

[Casio]

Two days ago I was discussing Adelaide and South Australia, when someone said 'Oh is Adelaide in South Australia??'. Probably the US equivalent would be 'Oh is San Francisco in California???'. This person is doing their second year of university believe it or not...

While I agree that while a majority of 16 year olds can make there own decisions about their health. It's not a bad thing to keep youth out of addictive and harmful substances.

 

[TestECull]

I'd estimate that by age 18, most folks have a level head on their shoulders, and can make the right decisions. A

Eh, what are YOU smoking? I've seen 21 year olds do stupid, stupid stuff that even a 15 year old wouldn't do...


Eheh, let's keep the smoking to our rear tires, kthxbai.

 

[Dave A]

If a 21 year old is doing something a 15 year old wouldn't do, your implying that the 21 year old is in the minority.

I've seen a lot of people in their high teens and low 20's do daft stuff.

 

[YSSMAN]

Well, I tend to think most people who aren't me are quite stupid (as evidenced by the drivers in this State), so I may be overestimating the 18 year olds today.

Problem is, kids are taken care of from the time they're born until about 25, and then they don't know what the hell to do.

EDIT:

And yes, I realize that I'm only 20 years old, but its been me who has been taking care of the family since I was 16...