Yes they do gain skill but so slowly that it isn't worth the time to mention it. I know this because I checked the exact numbers in a hex editor. After spending 40 real mins. doing nothing but teaching she gained 1 point is parenting. That just not right. Parenting skill comes from the RAISING of childern not their creation. This is something that I would love to see changed.

The other thing that really needs changing is the medical skills.
It makes no sense that Healers can't heal they can only cure. This in another skill that an overhaul. Training at plants gives about the same amount of skill that teaching does.. not worth the trouble. Like teaching you have to stay on top of them cuz NOBODY is willing to do this on their own. The idea that only food will heal an injury lacks sense. If you broke your leg a cheese sandwhich isn't going to make you feel much better. Yes a cook pot was added to aid in healing, but seriously does that make sense when you have Doctors struggling to make master?

I do like many of the suggestions listed here. But I really would like to see the above changes made.