One thing I like to pass on to my kids is the work ethic that my father taught me. When I was young, we were worked to death by my father. We did all manner of odd jobs in addition to our daily chores. There was never a day when we lacked something to do. I was not always happy at the time, but now I understand the value of this lesson.
Whenever possible, I try to make my own kids earn their keep and do the chores that I assign. I believe that a good work ethic will benefit them in the long run. No one likes a lazy bum and if I can help it, no one will say that about my kids!