I had to walk home from school in the first grade because both of my parents had to work. Then I proceeded to fix myself a meal! By the 3rd I was doing my own laundry.
Now I'm 21 living and hanging out with people that are 21 to 27 and have no fucking clue how to cook or iron.
Parents need to teach their children independence. I don't think it came naturally for me. It was expected.