5 Tips for Independent Living Skills

Here is a copy of the handout that I live to give my parents about encouraging independent living skills:

Take 5 for Independent Living

by Robbin Keating
Vision Rehabilitation Therapist

Independent living skills are essential for students with vision impairments. For many students, getting started and practicing are the most challenging obstacles. Parents play an integral part in facilitating an independent environment. It is important to remember that your encouragement and enthusiasm can make a difference in the attitude of your child. Here are my top five suggestions for getting off to a good start with independent living skills at home:

1. Take an honest look at how independent your child is.
a. Parent question: What could my child do without my help?
2. What is the realistic level of independence for my child?
a. Parent question: Does my child have the capability to perform age appropriate skills?
3. Commit to step back from helping with everything
a. Parent question: What is one thing I am doing for my child that I can STOP doing for them?
4. Set a specific goal for independent living
a. Parent question: What is one specific thing my child can START doing? Hint: Cooking lunch for themselves? Selecting clothes?
5. Practice, practice, practice!
a. Parent question: Am I enforcing 20 minutes of daily living activities 4-5 times a week? Does my child have a regular set of chores?

As parents, you have a great responsibility for your children. If you feel that you need more help in this area, consult your teacher for the visually impaired.