Empowering Families Series: Teaching Independence Skills

Blessed with Extraordinary: Support and resources for families of children with Down Syndrome

My son, Kevin, was born with Down Syndrome so I understand both the challenges and the blessings of teaching your child independent living skills.  Through encouragement and training with physical and occupational therapists, I learned the power of using modification and adaptation to help him learn new skills.

One of the most difficult things was letting my son do things on his own and watching him fail sometimes.  I learned that I needed to let him experiment and that it is part of the process of growing up. He was eager to try new things which made this part a bit easier.

Modifying an activity can help your child learn and reduce frustration. I made simple modifications for Kevin like putting items he needed most at his level.  To help him learn decision making I gave him 2 choices instead of multiple options.  It simplified the process and made him feel successful.

Adapting skills is the process of breaking a skill down into smaller more manageable steps.  For example, I took the skill of getting dressed and broke it down so that he could work on one piece at a time.  I created a picture board with the skills so he could visually follow along.  Once he mastered one step, underwear for example, I’d work with him on the next step.

Encouraging your child along the way has the power to help them learn in a positive way and it leads to greater success.  Celebrate those little moments and watch your child thrive!

By: Linda Bonner

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