Help young adults jump out of the family nest with this practical six-part series! Quick and to the point, each video focuses on a key area of independent living. Whether it's finding the right apartment, managing cash and credit, stocking the pantry, making meals, doing housekeeping, or building a wardrobe that sends the appropriate message in every situation, "On Your Own" will leave viewers feeling more confident about making important life decisions as they prepare to take responsibility for their futures.

There are six 20-minute programs in the series:

FINDING AN APARTMENT
What are the expenses of living in an apartment? What obligations come with signing on the dotted line? Is it good to have roommates? This video explains to first-time renters how to locate, lease, and set up an apartment while avoiding common problems. They'll learn about dealing with rental agents, evaluating a unit's condition, reading leases, getting renters' insurance, having the utilities turned on, and handling the roommate option. Information on moving and finding furniture on a budget is also included.

MANAGING YOUR MONEY
Money management is the key to independent living. This video puts money under a microscope as it looks at budgeting it, spending it wisely, and protecting it (and, by extension, that all-important credit rating). Specifics include opening a checking account, writing checks, making deposits, and balancing a checkbook; using ATM and debit cards; applying for a loan; and deciding whether to opt for a credit card - and if so, how to use it responsibly. A smart investment!

PRACTICAL, HEALTHY COOKING
Moving away from home means moving away from home-cooking, too - a fact that, surprisingly, escapes many young adults new to life on their own. After watching this video, viewers will see how easy it can be to read a recipe, measure out ingredients, prepare all sorts of meats and vegetables, package up and store leftovers, and clean up the kitchen so everything is sanitary and neat. Kitchen safety is stressed. Practice makes perfect!

SHOPPING SMART
There's no question about it: the grocery-shopping experience can be overwhelming! This video will guide viewers smoothly through the process of planning balanced meals, making a shopping list, clipping coupons, and setting (and sticking to!) a budget. Helpful tips on stretching a dollar and sidestepping supermarket gimmicks are included, and food safety is emphasized. Essential viewing for first-time shoppers!

HOUSEKEEPING HOW-TOS
From a dust mop and other necessary equipment, to cleaning supplies, to making (and following!) a what-and-when cleaning schedule, this video provides a step-by-step look at housekeeping. How to do laundry is also included, as well as a segment on how to clean a computer. Even viewers who have seldom straightened a room will learn how to maintain an entire apartment a mother would be proud to visit!

BUILDING THE RIGHT WARDROBE
Every outfit sends a message. This video shows how to send the right one at the appropriate time - without breaking the budget. Topics include the functional and social characteristics of clothes; the concepts of style and fashion; planning a wardrobe that accommodates work, school, and leisure; and shopping for value and price. Indispensable!

*Correlates to all applicable National and State Educational Standards including the NCLB Act.