Life skills checklists help special needs children build independence through practical, age-appropriate abilities. These often cover daily routines, social interactions, and self-care tailored to conditions like autism, ADHD, or intellectual disabilities.
## Core Self-Care Skills
Focus on personal hygiene and daily living first, as they form the foundation for autonomy.
- Brushing teeth, bathing, and dressing independently.
- Managing toileting, handwashing, and grooming routines.
- Eating meals properly, including using utensils and cleaning up.
## Household Management
Teach chores to foster responsibility and home contribution.
- Folding laundry, sorting clothes, and basic cleaning like dusting or dishwashing.
- Setting the table, simple cooking tasks, and organizing personal spaces.
- Handling trash removal and maintaining a tidy bedroom.
## Social and Emotional Skills
These build relationships and emotional regulation.
- Recognizing emotions in self and others, plus basic expression of needs.
- Maintaining eye contact, taking turns in conversation, and asking for help.
- Following social cues like personal space and polite greetings.
## Functional Academics
Practical math and reading support real-world decisions.
- Telling time, counting money, and making simple purchases.
- Reading personal names, signs, labels, and basic instructions.
- Understanding schedules and following daily routines.
## Community and Safety
Prepare for outings and independence outside home.
- Crossing streets safely, using public transport basics, and identifying helpers.
- Shopping with a list, paying cashiers, and recognizing community places.
- Basic safety like emergency calls and stranger awareness.
